Custody arrangement is killing my mental health

Jun 191 min read

I only get the kids every other weekend and it's honestly making me depressed. The house is so quiet when they're not here and I hate the feeling of missing out on their week. I know this is the arrangement we agreed to but I'm wondering if I should go back to court to try for more time. Don't want to be that guy who keeps fighting but I feel like I'm missing their lives. Anyone been through modifying custody?

10 comments204 views

Comments(10)

SScottRegularJun 20

Every other weekend custody is brutal, especially when the quiet house starts messing with your head. That's not just about missing the kids, that's mental health stuff you might need actual support for.

RRick M.RegularJun 21

I'm sorry you're going through this. The depression from being away from your kids that much is real and it's not something you should have to white knuckle through. Have you considered talking to someone about it?

EEli L.RegularJun 19

That quiet house feeling is real and it's okay to struggle with it. Three kids or one, the off-weeks can be lonely. Make sure you're taking care of yourself during those times, whether that's therapy or just staying connected with friends.

DDan M.RegularJun 19

I get it man, those quiet weekends hit different when you're used to having the kids around. Have you thought about filling some of that time with stuff you enjoy? It helps me get through the off-weeks.

JJarodNew DadJun 19

The every-other-weekend thing is rough on the mental health side of things. Have you looked into whether your custody arrangement could be adjusted? Worth talking to someone about what might work better for you and the kids.

KKyleRegularJun 19

Have you looked into whether you can get more time with them? Every other weekend seems like a lot of time away. Might be worth talking to a lawyer about your options.

EEric M.RegularJun 19

Every other weekend is really hard, man. That quiet house feeling is real and it's okay to acknowledge that. Have you thought about filling those weekends with something for yourself, or does that just make it worse?

NNathanRegularJun 20

The quiet is the worst part. Even when they're home it's loud and hectic but at least you're there. Weekend only custody is basically glorified babysitting and it sucks. You need more than that.

KKyleRegularJun 20

That depression isn't weakness, it's grief. You're losing half your time with your kids and that matters. Have you considered talking to someone about it? Not because anything's wrong with you, but because this is legitimately hard.

CChris M.RegularJun 20

The quiet house thing gets me too when my kids aren't here. It's more than just wanting them around - it's like your whole identity shifts. Definitely reach out for help if you're depressed.