When Drinking to Cope with Parenting Stress Becomes Something More

Written By Reagan Glover

The Glass of Wine That Promises Relief

Parenting is exhausting, and it’s common for both moms and dads to turn to wine or alcohol to cope with parenting stress. That evening beer or glass of wine can feel like the only way to relax after long days of school runs, homework, sporting events and endless adulting.

But when does “mom wine culture” or “just one drink” cross over into something that starts to affect your physical health, mood, or overall family life?

Signs Drinking May Be Becoming a Problem

It’s not always easy to see when alcohol use shifts from stress relief into something that deserves attention. Some signs include:

  • Increased reliance: Using alcohol more and more to cope with stress.

  • More than intended: Drinking more than planned or struggling to cut back.

  • Emotional reliance: Feeling irritable, restless, or anxious without it.

  • Impact on family life: Less energy, patience, or focus with your kids.

  • Hidden habit: Hiding or downplaying your drinking from others.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many parents who feel overwhelmed find themselves leaning on alcohol—and it doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means it might be time to find support outside yourself if this pattern is going to change.

How Therapy Can Help Parents Who Are Drinking to Cope

Support doesn’t mean you have to quit alcohol altogether. Therapy is a safe, compassionate space to explore your relationship with drinking and stress. Together, we can:

  • Discover healthy coping tools for parenting stress

  • Build strategies for balance, rest, and patience

  • Explore whether making changes in alcohol use could help you feel more like yourself

You’re Not Alone—Support Is Available

If you’ve noticed that alcohol has become more of a habit than a choice, therapy can help. I specialize in supporting moms, parents, and caregivers who are stressed, burned out, or questioning their relationship with alcohol.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Reagan Glover, MS, LMFT (She/Her) provides therapy to individuals and couples in-person in both Aptos and Scotts Valley, as well as via telehealth throughout California. If you are interested in learning more about starting therapy, checkout her website at www.reaganglovermft.com or call for a free phone consultation at (831) 460-2550 x4. Reagan has worked with people exploring their relationship with alcohol, as well as those identifying as addicts and alcoholics for more than a decade.

Reagan Glover