The Married Single Parent: Navigating Parenthood When You Feel Alone

Written by LaToya Hardin, M.R., BCC, CFLE – Founder of Intentions Coaching & Consulting. Learn more at IntentionsCoach.com

Parenting is never easy, but parenting while feeling like you’re doing it alone—despite being married—brings a unique and often unspoken challenge. The term “married single parent” describes those in committed relationships who find themselves shouldering the majority, if not all, of the parenting responsibilities. Whether your spouse works long hours, travels frequently, disengages emotionally, or simply assumes you have it all under control, the reality is that you’re managing everything on your own.

At first, you may take it in stride, believing it’s just a phase. But over time, the weight of carrying it all, physically, emotionally, and mentally, can lead to resentment, stress, anxiety, and even depression. The exhaustion is real, and so is the loneliness.

If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Many parents experience this dynamic, and while it’s easy to feel trapped in frustration, there are ways to cope, communicate, and work toward a healthier, more balanced partnership.

Signs You’re a Married Single Parent

Not every marriage with this dynamic looks the same, but here are some common signs that you may be functioning as a married single parent:

• You handle most (or all) of the parenting duties. From school drop-offs to doctor’s appointments, discipline, and bedtime routines—it’s all on you.

• Your spouse is physically present but emotionally absent. Even when they are home, they disengage or seem uninterested in the daily struggles and joys of parenting.

• Decision-making falls on your shoulders. From what’s for dinner to major decisions about schooling and discipline, it’s all left up to you.

• You feel exhausted and overwhelmed. The mental and physical burden of doing it all alone wears you down, leaving little time for self-care.

• Resentment is building in your marriage. You feel unappreciated and unsupported, and every small interaction with your spouse starts to feel like a battle.

• You struggle to communicate your needs. When you do bring up your concerns, they get dismissed, downplayed, or turned into an argument.

If any of these resonate with you, it’s important to address them before resentment takes over and creates deeper cracks in your marriage.

The Emotional Toll: Resentment, Stress, Anxiety & Depression

Being a married single parent doesn’t just lead to exhaustion—it can have a serious emotional and mental impact.

• Resentment:

When one partner feels like they are doing all the work while the other enjoys freedom, resentment inevitably builds. It may start as minor irritations but can quickly turn into anger, bitterness, and emotional distance. Small requests become big fights, and over time, the connection in the marriage weakens.

• Stress & Anxiety:

The constant mental load of managing everything—from meals to appointments to discipline—can create chronic stress and anxiety. The feeling that everything is on your shoulders makes it hard to relax, sleep well, or even enjoy moments with your children.

• Depression & Isolation:

Feeling unsupported can be lonely. When you see other couples co-parenting and dividing responsibilities, it can intensify feelings of sadness and isolation. Over time, depression can set in, making it harder to find joy in parenting or your relationship.

If you are experiencing any of these emotions, know that they are valid. However, they are also signals that something needs to change.

How to Fix It: Communication & Relationship Strategies

While you may feel alone in your parenting role, your marriage doesn’t have to stay this way. Here are ways to rebuild communication, set boundaries, and restore balance in your relationship.

1. Have an Honest Conversation

The first step is expressing how you feel. Instead of blaming, use “I” statements to communicate your needs.

Instead of: “You never help me with the kids. ”

Say: “I feel overwhelmed managing everything alone, and I need more support.”

Find a calm, private time to talk—avoid bringing it up in the middle of a stressful moment. Express what you need clearly, without assuming your partner understands what you're going through.

2. Define Clear Roles & Responsibilities

Many married single parents fall into this dynamic because responsibilities were never clearly defined. Sit down with your spouse and divide parenting duties fairly.

Make a list of daily, weekly, and monthly parenting tasks. Ask your spouse to take on specific responsibilities (e.g., bedtime routine, homework help, weekend outings). If work schedules are an issue, find ways they can contribute in different ways—like taking over weekend responsibilities.

3. Set Boundaries with Work & Technology

If your spouse is constantly working or distracted by screens, set boundaries.

Designate tech-free family time where both parents focus on the kids. If their job is demanding, agree on specific times when they’ll be present (e.g., committing to bedtime routines or weekend family time).

4. Schedule Time for Your Marriage

When parenting consumes your relationship, intimacy and connection suffer. Prioritize date nights, weekend outings, or even 20-minute daily check-ins where you talk as partners, not just parents.

5. Seek Support

If communication remains strained or resentment continues to grow, consider seeking couples coaching or therapy. Working with a professional like those at Intentions Coaching & Consulting can help bridge the gap in your relationship and give you tools to rebuild trust, teamwork, and emotional connection.

You Deserve Support

Parenting should not feel like a solo journey when you’re in a marriage. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unheard, or emotionally drained, now is the time to take action.

At Intentions Coaching & Consulting, we help couples navigate communication struggles, redefine parenting roles, and rebuild strong, supportive relationships. You don’t have to do this alone.

Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced partnership, because you and your family deserve it.