'I've forgotten to take care of myself': Charu Asopa's confession about invisible side of parenting

"I've forgotten to take care of myself. I think that's true."

With this simple and deeply honest admission, thousands of parents agrees to actress Charu Asopa.

In her latest YouTube vlog, the television actress opened up about the realities of raising her daughter, Ziana, largely on her own. She added that she wasn't asking for sympathy, she was simply sharing what motherhood looks like behind the scenes.

Charu spoke about the endless cycle of school runs, dance classes, homework, meals and playtime, saying, "Nobody can really help me. Everyone has to fight their own battles alone."

She also revealed that she recently turned down an offer to join Bigg Boss, choosing instead to stay close to her daughter because, at this stage of life, being present matters more than being away for work.

While Charu Asopa's story comes from her experience as a single mother, the emotions behind it feel familiar to many parents. Whether you're raising a child alone, balancing work and family, or managing a home while your partner is away, parenting often comes with a responsibility that never truly switches off.

The part of parenting that no one really sees

People often notice the visible parts of parenting, packing lunch boxes, school drop-offs or helping with homework. But what they don't see is the constant mental checklist running in a parent's mind.

Did the child finish their project? Is tomorrow sports day? Is there enough milk at home? Should I book that doctor's appointment?

These small thoughts add up, creating what experts call the mental load, the invisible work of planning, remembering and worrying that keeps a family running smoothly.

When parents put themselves last

One of the most relatable parts of Charu Asopa's vlog was her confession that she had stopped prioritising herself.

Many parents delay their own needs without even realising it. They skip meals, postpone health check-ups, give up hobbies or work late into the night after their children fall asleep. Looking after themselves slowly moves to the bottom of the list.

But parenting experts often say that self-care is a necessity. Children don't need perfect parents who never get tired. They need parents who are emotionally and physically well enough to be present.

Every family looks different

Charu also shared that she chooses work that allows her to stay with her daughter instead of taking projects that require long periods away from home.

Not every parent can make the same decision, and every family's circumstances are different. Some prioritise career opportunities, while others choose flexibility. Neither path is easy, and neither should be judged.

Behind every completed homework assignment and bedtime routine is a parent carrying an invisible list of responsibilities.

And perhaps the biggest reminder from her story is to that taking care of yourself isn't taking away from your child, it helps you show up for them, too.