I don't even want to get out of bed most days. My wife is frustrated with me, kids need me, and I'm just sitting here feeling like a failure. Lost my job 8 months ago and that really did a number on me. I know I should probably talk to someone but I feel like I'm beyond help at this point. Just venting I guess. Anyone else been here?
Depression lies to you about what kind of dad you are. I've been there and it felt impossible, but getting help actually changed things. Your family needs you healthy more than they need you perfect.
You're not failing your kids by struggling with this. But you do need to get some support, whether it's talking to your doctor or finding a therapist. That's not giving up, that's taking care of the person your family actually needs.
Your wife is frustrated but I bet she's also scared. Talk to her about what you're feeling. This isn't something you have to white-knuckle through alone.
Depression and parenting is a brutal combo. I went through something similar after my second kid was born. One thing that helped me was just moving my body for like 10 minutes, even if it was just a walk around the block. Doesn't fix it but it shifts something.
Man, I hear you. The bed feels safer than facing the day sometimes. Have you talked to your doctor about this? I know it's easier said than done, but depression lies to us about what our families actually need from us. They need you present more than perfect.
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I hear you, man. That weight of feeling like you're letting everyone down when you're already struggling is the worst. Please reach out to someone, whether that's your doctor or a therapist. You're not a failure, you're dealing with something real.