Why do I worry so much about my parents' finances?

It's common for children, even adults, to feel concern for their parents' financial well-being. This often stems from a deep sense of love and responsibility, especially if you've observed financial struggles in the past or feel a desire to protect them. Sometimes, this worry can also come from a feeling of being responsible for their happiness and security.

A 2019 study by Merrill Lynch and Age Wave found that 73% of adult children provide some form of financial support or assistance to their aging parents.

See other perspectives

Am I the only one who worries about my parents' finances as a child?

Am I the Only One?

Does everyone worry about their parents' finances as a child?

Does Everyone?

Is it normal to worry about your parents' finances as a child?

Is It Normal?

Is it weird to worry about your parents' finances as a child?

Is It Weird?

Real stories from the community

I saw them, this bright, smart kid, getting bogged down by all that adult responsibility. …

parentification

i guess this is kinda dumb and probably not even a real confession cos like it's not a big deal right but like sometimes i wonder if i just broke my kid you know my daughter she's sixteen now and um… …

parentification

It’s one of those things that just sits there, a dull ache in the background, but sometimes it flares up and I can’t ignore it. …

parentification

Okay so I’m like, typing this on my phone and it’s probably 2 AM, I should be asleep, obviously, I have that big presentation tomorrow, like, a whole quarter's worth of data, and if I mess this up,… …

parentification

I worry about my daughter, you know, because she spends all her evenings with me, listening to me go on and on about her father and everything, and she's always got the best advice for me, just like… …

parentification

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal to feel responsible for my parents' money problems?▾
Many people feel a strong sense of responsibility for their parents, particularly regarding financial stability. This can be especially true if you grew up in a household where you were aware of financial difficulties or felt the need to contribute early on.
How can I stop worrying about my parents' financial future?▾
Focusing on what you can control, like managing your own finances and offering practical, non-financial support, can help. Open communication with your parents, if appropriate, about their plans can also ease some anxieties, but remember their choices are ultimately theirs.
What if my parents expect me to support them financially?▾
If your parents have explicit or implicit expectations for financial support, it's important to consider your own capacity and comfort. Clearly communicating your own financial situation and limits, with kindness, can help manage these expectations.

Have your own experience to share?

Share Your Story