Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

#1080 - Q&A: Lazy Husband & Sleep Struggles

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Episode notes

An anonymous listener shares their frustration and exhaustion with a husband who feels more like an additional child than a partner, offering little support with household and family responsibilities. Justin unpacks "weaponised incompetence" and the unfairness and resentment that build when one parent is left carrying the load and provides guidance on how to address the issue in a way that avoids blame, accusations, and an all-out conflict.

Michelle, from Victoria, has a daughter experiencing mental illness, with chronic insomnia, anxiety, and friendship issues—all leading to a feeling of exhaustion and desperation in the home. Justin shares some ideas with Michelle that will help her struggling daughter, emphasising the importance of finding what ignites delight in your child—and giving them more of it!

In this episode:

Weaponised incompetence
When one parent feels overwhelmed, exhausted, resentful
Be honest (without accusations or blame)
Setting clear expectations and solutions
NDIS
Couples meeting
Getting on the same page
Enabling laziness
Autism, ADHD, chronic insomnia, anxiety
Importance of sleep and bedtime routine
Extra-curricular activities
Validating emotions
3 basic psychological needs: autonomy, competence, connection