Motherhood can be overwhelming - but why does it so often come with anger, guilt, and shame? In this episode of Parent Unplugged, we’re joined by Dr Caroline Boyd, clinical psychologist and specialist in maternal rage, anger, and anxiety, to unpack the question so many mothers silently ask themselves: “Why aren’t I coping better?” We explore why maternal anger is so common, why it’s so deeply stigmatised, and why it has nothing to do with being a “bad mum.” From broken sleep and sensory overload to being the default parent and carrying invisible mental load, Dr Boyd explains how modern motherhood creates the perfect conditions for rage - and why anger is not the problem, but a messenger. In this conversation, we talk about: What maternal rage actually is (and why it’s not a personal failure) Why anger often turns inward as shame and self-criticism The pressure of “perfect” and gentle parenting ideals Why mothers feel guilty for emotions they were never taught how to handle The “drip, drip, drip” effect that leads to explosive moments Practical ways to regulate anger in the moment How to repair after losing your temper - with your child and yourself Why compassion, not control, is the key to breaking cycles This episode is for any parent who has ever felt overwhelmed, touched-out, overstimulated, or ashamed of their own emotions - and wants to understand themselves with more kindness. 🎧 You are not broken. You are human. And you are not alone. We talk about different contextual forces at play that shape our responses to anger. These social contexts are numerous and varied for every individual, often including important identities such as race, class and sexuality, which influence how we feel and express anger. About Caroline Clinical psychologist Dr Caroline Boyd has over 10 years' experience working in the NHS and mental health settings, and she supports parents from pregnancy to childbirth and beyond. Caroline offers anger courses, workshops and 1:1 therapy in her independent psychology practice, Parent Therapy Hub. Caroline is the author of Mindful New Mum, and her published research explores mothers' experiences of intrusive thoughts about their babies. Her work has been featured in You magazine, Elle, Grazia, the Telegraph and Woman's Hour on BBC Radio 4, and she is an Ambassador for UK perinatal mental health charity, PANDAS. Caroline shares psychology ideas on Instagram and in the media to help parents feel less alone and more connected - to themselves and their children. You can reach Caroline at drcarolineboyd.com or via Instagram @_drboyd Caroline offers a self-paced anger course for mothers (USE THE CODE “PODCAST” TO CLAIM YOUR £100 DISCOUNT): Download Caroline’s FREE GUIDE on how to handle anger in HOT moments: For an overview of Caroline’s work, including her book, Mindful New Mum, click here. If you’re struggling with difficult thoughts and feelings or if this episode raises any concerns for you, please talk to a trusted health professional such as your GP. You can also reach out to the services below: UK: PANDAS offer a free, bookable call service Samaritans – 116 123 US: Postpartum Support International - 1-800-944-4773 (4PPD) For emergency help - call 999 or visit your local A&E department
