Anxiety is ruining my relationship with my kids | DadHQ

Anxiety is ruining my relationship with my kids

1w ago1 min read

I've been dealing with pretty bad anxiety for the past year or so and it's starting to affect how I am with my boys. I snap at them over little things, I'm always in my head worrying about money and work stuff, and I can tell they're picking up on it. My oldest asked me why I'm always mad now and that just broke me. Has anyone else dealt with this? How do you manage anxiety when you have kids depending on you? I feel like I'm failing them.

6 comments151 views

Comments(6)

MMichaelRegular1w ago

Don't beat yourself up too much. The fact that you recognize it and want to fix it shows you care. A lot of guys just let it get worse. Have you tried any physical stuff to burn off the anxiety? Even walking helps me clear my head.

MManuelRegular1w ago

That anxiety spiral is real, man. I'm with twins and some days I snap over nothing. Have you tried talking to someone about it? Made a huge difference for me getting help instead of just white-knuckling through.

MMichaelRegular1w ago

Hey, recognizing this is already a big step. I'm new to this with my 6-month-old and anxiety hits different when you're a dad. Getting some support might help more than you think.

MMason K.New Dad1w ago

That's a tough spot. Between three kids and work schedules I hit that wall too. Might be worth talking to a doctor about the anxiety - your boys love you and they'll understand if you get some help so you can be better for them.

KKyleRegular1w ago

I'm dealing with something similar and it's exhausting. The kids are picking up on my mood even when I think I'm hiding it. Getting help was the best thing I did for both them and me.

MMichaelRegular1w ago

This is real and I'm glad you're being honest about it. I've been there too - that anxiety makes you short with them or withdrawn when you need to be present. Have you talked to a therapist about it? Made a huge difference for me.