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The Sandwich Generation: Mothers Balancing Children and Elder Care

Many women today find themselves in what is called the “sandwich generation” — caring for their own young children while also supporting aging parents. While this role reflects love and responsibility, it also brings unique pressures that can weigh heavily on mental health.



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Juggling playdates and doctor’s appointments, homework and hospital visits — many mothers today are caught in the “sandwich generation,” caring for both young children and aging parents. While this role reflects deep love and responsibility, the constant balancing act can take a quiet but heavy toll on mental health (Chassin et al., 2010).


At NJCCS, I support mothers who feel overwhelmed by the demands of caring for both children and aging parents. Together, we can name the stress you’re carrying, build coping strategies, set healthy boundaries, and connect you with resources that strengthen both your well-being and your ability to care for loved ones. You don’t have to carry this weight alone.

🔎 What Is Caregiver Burnout?

Caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that develops when ongoing caregiving demands become overwhelming. Signs include irritability, fatigue, withdrawal from others, and a loss of joy in daily life (American Psychological Association, 2020). For sandwich generation mothers, this burnout can make it difficult to be present for both children and parents, further compounding feelings of stress and inadequacy.

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Finding Balance and Support

At Nada Johnson Counselling, we understand the unique struggles of sandwich generation mothers. Through compassionate counselling, I help women:


  • Manage stress and overwhelming emotions.

  • Strengthen self-esteem and coping strategies.

  • Set boundaries and prioritize self-care.

  • Navigate feelings of guilt and pressure.


You don’t have to carry this weight alone. With support, balance is possible — and so is protecting your own well-being while caring for those you love.

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Caring for two generations at once is demanding, but support can make all the difference. Studies show that caregivers who access resources and counselling are better able to manage stress, reduce symptoms of depression, and improve overall well-being (American Psychological Association, 2020). By seeking help, mothers in the sandwich generation not only protect their own health but also strengthen their capacity to care for their families with patience and compassion.

🌱 You Deserve Balance and Peace

If any of this feels familiar, please remember: struggling to manage both childcare and elder care does not mean you’re failing. The weight you’re carrying is real — and acknowledging it is a powerful first step.


At NJCCS, I help mothers by:

✨ Naming caregiver stress and burnout as real and valid challenges.

✨ Rebuilding confidence and self-worth in the midst of overwhelming demands.

✨ Creating boundaries and self-care strategies that protect your mental health.

✨ Connecting you with community and caregiving resources for added support.


You deserve balance, peace, and the freedom to care for your loved ones without losing yourself. 💌


💌 Closing Thoughts

If this speaks to your experience, reach out to Nada Johnson Counselling. Together, we can take steps to ease the pressure, strengthen your resilience, and help you reclaim peace in the midst of life’s demands.


📧 If this blog spoke to you, reach out to me at info@nadajohnsonservices.com. Together, we can take steps toward freedom and healing.


With warmth,

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Nada Johnson, MSW, RSW

Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist / trained Family Mediator / EMDR Trained Therapist / Certified Racial Trauma Clinician / Mental Health & Sexual Violence Consultant / Professional Speaker

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Nada Johnson Consulting & Counselling Services – Online phone and video sessions available

Village Healing Centre: 240 Roncesvalles Avenue





Follow our platforms for empowering content, parenting support, and mental health tools. Please share this post to support other mothers raising neurodivergent children; they deserve care too. 🤝


References

American Psychological Association. (2020). Stress in America 2020: Stress in the time of COVID-19, volume two. https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2020/stress-in-america-covid

Chassin, L., Macy, J. T., Seo, D. C., Presson, C. C., Sherman, S. J., & Wirth, R. J. (2010). The association between membership in the sandwich generation and health behaviors: A longitudinal study. Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, 31(1), 38–46. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appdev.2009.06.001

Pew Research Center. (2013). The sandwich generation: Rising financial burdens for middle-aged Americans. https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2013/01/30/the-sandwich-generation/


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Want More Support for Your Professional & Personal Growth?

🔷Try Potential Unlocked™🔷


In addition to counselling, NJCCS offers coaching through our sister brand, Potential Unlocked™, designed specifically for professional women navigating career, leadership, and life transitions.


We support clients with:

  • Communication and conflict strategy in the workplace

  • Career development and leadership coaching

  • Navigating workplace dynamics and burnout recovery

  • Building confidence in both personal and professional relationships (Online dating empowerment coaching, because personal growth impacts professional life too!)


👉 Visit www.potentialunlocked.ca to learn more or book a free 10-minute consultation call.

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