We started planning for it in February. We have spreadsheets and camp fliers, calendars, and costs broken down by each of our five kids, ages 1 to 9. And yet, it still arrived in a flurry and still landed mostly on me, the mom. As someone otherwise very proud of society’s evolution to a more equitable division of the “invisible load,” I’ve noticed that it all seems to go out the window when warm weather and summer break arrive. Why, when I look at the drop-off line for summer camp, is it still mostly moms?

Summer is supposed to be a break — but for a lot of parents, it feels more like a breaking point. The usual routines disappear, the kids are suddenly home all the time, and the pressure to be the “fun parent” (hello, endless activities and snacks) is nonstop. If you’ve been feeling off — emotionally drained, overstimulated, or just not like yourself — you’re far from alone. According to BetterHelp’s new State of Stigma report, 63% of parents agree it’s smart to seek therapy even when nothing feels technically “wrong.” But stigma, cost, and time often get in the way. That’s where BetterHelp comes in. With over 30,000 licensed therapists and flexible virtual sessions you can do from home (even during naptime), it’s the world’s largest online therapy platform — and a lifeline for overwhelmed parents who need a little support this summer. No waitlists. No judgment. Just support when you need it most.