The concept of the "golden child" often emerges in families where one child is consistently favored or idealized by a parent or caregiver. This dynamic, while not a formal psychological diagnosis, can have significant emotional and psychological implications for both the favored child and their siblings. The golden child is often seen as perfect, capable of no wrong, and held to a higher standard than their siblings. This child may receive constant praise and compliments, even for minor achievements, while their siblings' accomplishments go unnoticed or unacknowledged. This favoritism creates an imbalance in the family dynamic, where the golden child is placed on a pedestal and the other children may feel less valued or loved.

Signs of Golden Child Syndrome

The golden child dynamic often manifests in several keyways. Constant praise and favoritism, even for minor accomplishments, can create a sense of entitlement in the favored child. Unrealistic expectations, such as the pressure to be perfect in academics or extracurricular activities, can lead to significant stress and anxiety. Overprotection and special treatment can hinder the child's development of resilience and independence. Sibling rivalry and resentment are common outcomes, as siblings may feel neglected or undervalued. Additionally, the golden child may take on an emotional burden, feeling responsible for the family's happiness and well-being.

Role of Parenting Styles

The way parents interact with their children can significantly influence the development of golden child syndrome. Authoritarian parenting, characterized by strict rules and high expectations, can create a climate where one child is singled out for praise and perfection. Permissive parenting, on the other hand, can lead to overindulgence and a lack of boundaries, fostering a sense of entitlement. Overparenting, where parents excessively intervene in their child's life, can also contribute to the golden child dynamic by shielding the favored child from the natural consequences of their actions.

Impact on the Golden Child

Being a golden child can have both positive and negative consequences. On the positive side, it can boost self-esteem and confidence. However, it can also lead to unrealistic expectations, perfectionism, and a fear of failure. The constant pressure to be perfect can cause significant stress and anxiety, affecting the child's mental health. Additionally, the lack of criticism or negative feedback can hinder the development of empathy and social skills.

Siblings of the golden child often experience negative emotional and psychological effects. They may feel neglected, undervalued, and resentful. Low self-esteem can develop as they compare themselves unfavorably to the favored sibling. Difficulty forming healthy relationships may also arise, as they struggle with issues of trust and intimacy. In some cases, sibling rivalry can escalate into conflict and hostility.

Addressing Golden Child Syndrome

To mitigate the negative effects of golden child syndrome, parents can take several steps. First, it's important to be mindful of favoritism and strive to treat all children fairly and equitably. Setting realistic expectations and celebrating each child's unique strengths can help to foster a positive family environment. Open communication is crucial, allowing family members to express their feelings and concerns. If the challenges persist, seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor can provide valuable guidance and support.

Motherhood is as much a transformation as it is a tenderness. Yet whereas most parents anticipate sleepless nights and diaper changes, fewer appreciate how the first 1000 days, from conception to a child's second birthday, shape a baby's health and well-being for the rest of their life.

According to Dr. Kushal Agrawal, HOD, Department of Neonatology and Paediatrics, “The first 1000 days represent a critical window where the brain develops faster than at any other time. Over 80% of brain development occurs by the time the child turns two. What happens during this phase quite literally shapes a child’s cognitive potential, immunity, and emotional well-being.”

This in-depth guide is based on scientific knowledge and pediatric experience to assist mothers, carers, and families in maximizing these critical 1000 days.

Why the First 1000 Days Matter Most?

The initial 1000 days—from conception up to a child's second birthday—are marked by dramatic physical, mental, and emotional development. In these years, brain cells create trillions of connections. Nutrition, love, and physical care at this time determine a child's ability to learn, their immune system, and even their resistance to chronic diseases much later in life.

As Dr. Agrawal puts it, "It's not just about having a healthy baby. It's about laying down the template for future health, behavior, and learning capacity. Every contact, every vitamin, and every cuddle matters."

Before Pregnancy

The process starts even before getting pregnant. Pregnancy planning is not merely a way of life—it's a medical necessity.

"Women intending to conceive should start with a complete medical check-up to tackle underlying health conditions," Dr. Agrawal suggests. "Start folic acid supplements at least three months before. It helps decrease neural tube defects and aids in early fetal growth."

Follow a balanced diet with plenty of iron, calcium, and folate. Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and all recreational drugs several months prior to conception. Being at a healthy pre-pregnancy weight and having properly controlled chronic illnesses such as diabetes or thyroid disease can avoid complications for both mother and child.

During Pregnancy

Being pregnant is a period of increased responsibility. Your baby is completely reliant on you for nutrition and emotional support.

Monthly antenatal visits are essential to monitor fetal growth and detect complications early. Hydration is equally necessary—10–12 glasses of pure water daily. Freshly prepared, nutrient-dense foods in small, frequent servings.

Light exercise like walking or prenatal yoga improves circulation and mood, while good rest—at least 8 hours of unbroken sleep—facilitates fetal growth.

Don't underestimate the power of emotional well-being," Dr. Agrawal says. "High levels of maternal stress can impact the baby's temperament and risk of developmental delays. Participate in stress-lowering activities such as reading, music, or guided meditation."

Post-Birth

The initial hour after birth—often referred to as the "Golden Hour"—is critical. Get breastfeeding started within this timeframe to transfer antibodies and build a robust immune foundation.

Breastfeed exclusively for the first six months—no formula, no water. "Breastmilk is a complete meal. It provides antibodies, essential fats, and immune-boosting enzymes," says Dr. Agrawal.

Daily skin-to-skin contact, talking, smiling, and singing to the baby promote bonding and stimulate early brain development. Vaccines should be given on time, and frequent pediatric checkups are not negotiable.

6 Months to 2 Years

At six months, introduce soft foods made at home in addition to continued breastfeeding. Gradually add a range of fruits, vegetables, cereals, and pulses. Processed foods, salt, sugar, and honey are to be avoided, as they can injure developing organs.

Be sure to keep feeding hygienic. "Encourage self-feeding, let your baby play with textures, and promote movement—crawling, walking, climbing stairs holding someone who can support them. All of these aid in physical and mental development," says Dr. Agrawal.

Restrict screen time. Instead, promote face-to-face interaction with storytelling, playtime, and exploration.

Why Role of the Family Is More Than Shared Responsibility?

Motherhood is not an isolated experience. Fathers, grandparents, and extended family members all help shape the baby's early life.

A supportive family can decrease maternal stress and improve mental health. Share tasks—from diaper changes to soothing at night—and make sure the mother is getting plenty of rest and healthy meals.

"A smoke-free, peaceful home environment enhances not just physical health but also emotional security for mother and baby," Dr. Agrawal stresses.

The first 1000 days are not merely about checking boxes off a list—they are about thoughtful care, emotional connection, and conscious parenting.

What you do today—what you feed, how you sleep, how you communicate with your baby can have a profound impact on your child's cognitive skills, emotional maturity, and physical well-being. As Dr. Agrawal says, "These aren't just days. They are opportunities. Let's make each one count."

Dr Kushal Agrawal is HOD of Department of Neonatology and Paediatrics at KVR Hospital, Kashipur in India

Among the many rare conditions which are life-threatening, Dr Sermed Mezher, a doctor based in London, a medicine physician and a content creator shared a video explaining 'one of the worst pregnancy complications'.

He says, "There's been a very public case of a 33-year-old woman, who sadly passed away from an exceptionally rare complication of pregnancy recently."

What Are The Facts?

It is called an amniotic fluid embolism, or AFE, which is a rare, but extremely dangerous childbirth complication, he explains. It happens when amniotic fluid, fetal cells, or other debris enter the mother's bloodstream, triggering a severe and sudden immune response. This can lead to rapid cardiovascular collapse, respiratory failure, and life-threatening bleeding due to disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), he explains.

He says that it is most difficult to manage this complications during delivery, "as it is when part of the actual amniotic fluid that surrounds the baby or some fetal cells actually get into the maternal bloodstream and spreads to the rest of the body." It causes the whole systems inflammatory allergic reaction.

Why Is It So Difficult To Manage?

He shares that it is because, at this stage multiple systems can start failing at the same time. It leads to cardio respiratory collapse, oxygen levels start plummeting, blood pressure starts falling, and also causes excessive bleeding of something called DIC.

DIC is where clotting factors are all being used up in the blood, and the patient can have seizures at the same time.

He, however does mention that it is an incredibly rare complication, which affects only 1 in 40 to 50,000 pregnancies, between 11 and 43% of mothers not making it through the complication.

What Is AFE?

As per the National Library of Medicine, it is a rare but serious condition with high mortality and morbidity rates and is the second leading cause of peripartum maternal death. It occurs when amniotic fluid enters the maternal bloodstream.

Cardiovascular collapse is often the first sign of amniotic fluid embolism (AFE). It is typically followed by activation of the clotting and fibrinolytic systems, which may lead to disseminated intravascular coagulation. Since no specific test exists, AFE is diagnosed based on clinical assessment.

What May Increase Your Chance of AFE?

• Advanced maternal age (being older than 35 during pregnancy)
• Expecting multiples (twins, triplets or more)
• Fetal distress (changes to the fetal heart rate)
• Issues with the placenta like placental abruption
• Preeclampsia or eclampsia
• Polyhydramnios (too much amniotic fluid)
• Cervical tears
• Labor induction medications or procedures
• Having a C-section delivery
• Operative assisted deliveries (forceps delivery or vacuum extraction)

Are There Any Symptoms?

Signs and symptoms of AFE develop suddenly and quickly, and often they are similar to that of other ordinary complication of pregnancy, which makes it difficult to detect the condition.

However, these could be the following symptoms:

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Sudden drop in blood pressure
• Pulmonary edema (fluid in your lungs)
• Abnormal heart rate
• Bleeding from your uterus, C-section incision or IV (intravenous) sites
• Fetal distress
• Agitation, confusion or sudden anxiety
• Chills

Have you ever looked at your mom and wondered, how does she do it all? From managing the morning chaos, handling work deadlines, remembering every birthday, to ensuring there’s always food on the table—mothers seem like they have some kind of superpower. And on Mother’s Day, while we shower them with love, flowers, and breakfast in bed, it’s also worth asking: at what cost does she wear this invisible cape?

Behind the warm hugs and tireless dedication lies a reality that’s often overlooked—the silent burnout that builds from trying to live up to the impossible expectations of being a “supermom.” While the world applauds her multitasking skills, very few pause to ask how she’s actually doing. Are we celebrating mothers for who they truly are, or for how well they perform under relentless pressure?

This Mother’s Day, let’s talk about the health impact of this “supermom syndrome” that’s romanticized in culture but often harmful in reality. Let’s explore how setting boundaries isn’t about stepping back, but stepping into a healthier, more sustainable version of motherhood. Because honoring mothers means more than a single day of appreciation—it means empowering them to reclaim their well-being every day.

In many homes around the world—and particularly in culturally rooted societies like India—the image of a “supermom” is not just admired, it’s expected. She is the orchestrator of meals, emotions, and milestones, all while excelling at work and showing up with poise and grace. But behind this high-functioning façade lies a serious health concern. Burnout.

“Motherhood is beautiful, but it isn’t a performance,” says Dr. Tonmoy Sharma, psychiatrist and global mental health expert. “When mothers are forced to meet unrealistic expectations day after day, they begin to internalize that they’re never doing enough—and this leads to chronic stress and exhaustion, which we now recognize as maternal burnout.”

The Health Toll of Being a Supermom

The silent pressure to ‘do it all’ is all too familiar. Mothers often find themselves navigating a never-ending checklist—well-fed children, a clean house, a successful career, cultural obligations, and emotional caregiving—while silently ignoring their own needs. Unlike dramatic breakdowns, burnout among mothers often manifests subtly.

“It doesn’t always look like a breakdown,” explains Dr. Sharma. “Sometimes, it’s emotional numbness, irritability, or a persistent sense of guilt. These are signs that the brain is overwhelmed, and the nervous system is under constant pressure.”

Long-term exposure to this stress cycle is linked to a higher risk of anxiety, depression, heart disease, and sleep disorders. Emotionally, it disconnects mothers from their children and partners, and ironically, undermines the very caregiving they work so hard to provide.

Cultural Conditioning and the Pressure to Overgive

In traditional Indian households, the mother’s identity is often intertwined with sacrifice. She is applauded for putting her family before herself, even when it means suppressing her exhaustion or mental health.

“Culturally, Indian mothers are conditioned to see overexertion as devotion. But we’re now seeing how this norm is unsustainable—and even harmful,” says Dr. Sharma.

This culture of martyrdom leaves little room for vulnerability or self-care, and many mothers suffer in silence. Asking for help is stigmatized. Rest is viewed as laziness. Saying ‘no’ is considered defiance.

Why Saying ‘No’ is Saying Yes to Health?

One of the most powerful steps a mother can take toward her mental and physical well-being is learning to set healthy boundaries. And it begins with understanding that saying “no” doesn’t equate to failure—it signifies awareness.

“Setting boundaries doesn’t mean abandoning your family. It means showing up for them in a way that is more sustainable and emotionally healthy,” notes Dr. Sharma.

That might mean communicating your needs more clearly, declining obligations when your energy is depleted, or asking for help with household responsibilities. Small actions—like taking 15 minutes in the morning for a cup of tea or letting someone else take the lead on bedtime—can begin to shift the dynamic.

How to Start Healing from Burnout?

Self-care isn’t just a trend—it’s a mental health strategy. And for mothers battling burnout, it’s crucial. Start small. Give yourself permission to leave tasks undone. Prioritize sleep. Take walks. Journal your thoughts. Most importantly, connect with someone who will listen without judgment.

“Mothers need to know that their worth isn’t based on how much they do for others. Protecting your mental health teaches your children that self-worth and well-being go hand in hand,” says Dr. Sharma.

Beyond individual strategies, the solution lies in societal and familial shifts. That includes partners sharing the invisible labor of parenting, communities that encourage rest without guilt, and workplaces that understand the invisible workload carried by mothers.

“The idea that mothers must carry it all is outdated and damaging,” Dr. Sharma adds. “What we need are healthier systems that value emotional safety, shared responsibility, and genuine support.”

If you’re reading this with a knot in your stomach, exhausted from trying to do it all—take a breath. You’re not weak, you’re not falling short. You’re just a person navigating one of life’s most complex roles.

Being a strong mother doesn’t mean sacrificing yourself entirely. It means knowing when to pause, reset, and say, “I need help.” That’s not failure—that’s resilience. As Dr. Sharma concludes, “Real strength is about honoring your limits, not erasing them.”

Dr. Tonmoy Sharma is a Psychiatrist and CEO & Founder at Merlin Health in India