How Emotional Suppression Impacts Working Parents’ Health

I prided myself on ‘keeping it together‘—no tears, no time for grief after losing my parents, or for the betrayal of crumbling relationships. Feeling, I told myself, was a luxury I couldn’t afford.

My kids needed me. My job needed me.

As a solo mom of three with a full-time career and a health coaching practice, I had mastered the art of pushing through. I buried unpleasant emotions, thinking they would eventually disappear.

But they didn’t.

For years, I convinced myself that suppressing my emotions was a survival skill. There was no room for grief, anger, or even joy—only the constant hum of “what’s next?” I didn’t realize the toll this was taking on my health, relationships, and ability to truly show up for my family and career.

Maybe you’ve been there, too.

So, how does emotional suppression affect working parents, and why does prioritizing your emotional well-being matter so much?

Let’s explore the hidden costs and the steps you can take to start feeling lighter and more in control of your life.

Why Working Parents Suppress Their Emotions?

As working parent, you are constantly pressured to “power through.”

You’re expected to deliver results at work, remain composed during challenges, and be the emotional anchor for your family.

It’s no wonder so many of us learn to suppress our emotions. Here’s why it happens:

• Lack of time: Your life is busy.
• Workplace pressures: Emotions are unprofessional in the workplace.
• Parenting demands: Your kids need you to be strong and in a good mood.
• The myth of strength: Society tells us that successful people don’t break under pressure.

But emotional suppression has hidden costs that many of us fail to notice until it’s too late.

What Happens When You Face Your Emotions?

Through my journey, I learned that facing emotions doesn’t mean you’ll fall apart. It means you’ll finally start to heal.

When you acknowledge your feelings, you open the door to:

• Renewed energy: Releasing emotional weight frees up mental and physical energy.
• Stronger connections: Authenticity helps you build deeper relationships with your loved ones.
• Improved focus: Clarity in your emotions translates to better performance at work and home.

The Hidden Costs of Emotional Suppression

When you suppress your emotions, you may believe you’re protecting yourself or others from discomfort.

However, this kind of emotional repression can lead to various hidden costs that affect your mental and physical well-being. By avoiding your feelings, you may experience increased stress, anxiety, and depression over time.

Additionally, emotional suppression can hinder your ability to connect with others, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Ultimately, when you suppress your emotions, they show up in unexpected and damaging ways, such as:

• Physical symptoms: Chronic stress can lead to sleep disturbances, fatigue, and weakened immunity.

• Emotional burnout: Bottling up emotions often results in anxiety, depression, or feelings of disconnection.

• Strained relationships: Suppressed emotions can create distance between you and your loved ones, making it harder to connect.

• Decreased productivity: Emotional weight can drain your focus, creativity, and efficiency at work.

You might think you’re coping, but the truth is, suppression isn’t a long-term strategy—it’s a recipe for burnout.

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How to Break Free from Emotional Weight?

Breaking free from the emotional weight of suppression isn’t just about processing feelings—it’s also about nurturing yourself.

The good news is that you don’t have to tackle everything at once. Small, intentional changes can make a big difference in how you feel physically, mentally, and emotionally.

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Here are three practical ways to start reclaiming your energy and emotional resilience, with resources to guide you along the way:

1. Nourish Your Body with Mood-Boosting Foods

As a health coach I believe in the power of food and what you eat defines how you feel. Certain foods can help balance hormones, boost serotonin (your feel-good chemical), and provide steady energy to power through your day.

When I began incorporating nutrient-dense, mood-enhancing meals into my routine, I noticed a shift—not just in my physical health, but in my emotional well-being, too.

Start with these simple food ideas:

These articles are designed to fit into busy schedules, making it easier to nourish your body without adding stress.

2. Reignite Joy Through Hobbies

Hobbies aren’t just a way to fill your free time—they’re a lifeline for emotional well-being. Engaging in creative or physical activities helps you release stress, build resilience, and reconnect with your inner self.

For years, I told myself I didn’t have time for hobbies. But when I made space for things I genuinely enjoyed—like hiking with my kids or trying a new recipe—I found moments of calm and clarity in the chaos.

Looking for inspiration?

3. Reconnect with Nature for Emotional Clarity

Even a short walk outside can do wonders for your mental state. Research shows that time in nature reduces cortisol (the stress hormone) and improves mood.

I’ve made it a priority to step outside daily, whether it’s a quick sunrise walk or an afternoon at the park with my kids. These moments help me feel grounded, even on the busiest days.

If you’re ready to bring nature into your routine, explore:

These resources will show you simple ways to nourish your body and mind without adding stress to your routine.

The Shine Bright Community: A Space to Reconnect and Heal

If you’re reading this and nodding along, I want you to know you’re not alone. This is exactly why I created the Shine Bright Community. It is a safe, supportive space for working parents like you to reconnect with themselves and find balance amidst life’s chaos.

• How to stop apologizing for struggling and start thriving.
• Let go of guilt and societal expectations.
• Practical tips to reclaim your time and energy.
• Encouragement to shine bright for yourself and your kids.

This community is about thriving together.

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In total, balancing work, parenting, and everything else life throws your way can feel overwhelming. Suppressing emotions might seem like the easiest way to cope, but in the long run, it takes a toll on your health, relationships, and ability to show up fully.

By choosing to face your emotions and prioritize your well-being, you can create a life where balance and joy coexist.

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s about creating a routine that works for you, one step at a time. If you’re ready to take the next step, download the FREE Shine Bright Guide here and join our community today.

You’ve been carrying so much for so long. It’s time to lighten the load and start showing up for yourself.