Fresh Take: Dr. Cassidy Freitas on How to Stay Calm When Parenting Feels Overwhelming

What if the fact that we sometimes we "lose it" as parents doesn't make us bad parents? What if those times stem from an overwhelmed nervous system, and what happens when we get curious about what's underneath?

Marriage and family therapist Dr. Cassidy Freitas, host of the "Holding Space" podcast and author of the new book MOM NEEDS A MOMENT, explains why parents "lose it," what our emotional reactions are really telling us, and how we can interrupt generational patterns without striving for perfection.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How childhood experiences shape your parenting triggers today.
• The difference between guilt and shame.
• Why repair after conflict is often more powerful than trying to be a perfect parent.
• How social media and intensive parenting culture fuel parental burnout and self-criticism.
• What "creating margin" means—and why a few moments of space can transform your relationship with your children.
• How to recognize your triggers before reacting.
• The simple phrase Dr. Freitas uses to calm her nervous system in difficult parenting moments.

Here's where you can find Dr. Freitas:

• www.drcassidymft.com
• @drcassidy on IG
• Buy MOM NEEDS A MOMENT: https://bookshop.org/a/12099/9781523533534

What Fresh Hell is co-hosted by Amy Wilson and Margaret Ables.

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