Is parenting today really more stressful? The U.S. surgeon general thinks so [Video]

Parenting these days can often feel like treading water, begging for someone to throw you a rope. But instead of pulling you out, a passerby gives you a high-five and says, “I don’t know how you do it all!” 

The answer? Poorly, according to many parents. Evidently, the stress is taking a toll.

On Wednesday, the U.S. surgeon general issued a public health advisory about the impact of modern stresses on parents’ mental health. Considering that previous surgeon general advisories have included the risks of gun violence, and smoking, the public is paying attention.

In addition to the traditional challenges of parenting —  like protecting children from harm and worrying about finances — there are new stressors that previous generations didn’t have to consider, said Surgeon General Vivek Murthy.

These include social media, the youth mental health crisis, and increased financial strain as the cost of some necessities, like child care, have boomed, he said.

“Guilt and shame have …