Depression made me a bad dad and I hate myself for it

EvanNew Dad

3w ago·1 min read

I've been struggling with depression for over a year now and I'm finally admitting how much it's affected my kids. I've been checked out, irritable, just going through the motions. My 8 year old asked me the other day why I never want to play with him anymore and I just shut down. He didn't deserve that. I'm starting therapy next week and I'm on antidepressants but I feel like I've already done irreversible damage. How do I fix this with my family while I'm trying to fix myself?

3 comments150 views

Comments(3)

NNate K.New Dad3w ago

Hey, the fact that you're recognizing this and getting help shows your kids everything they need to see about accountability. You're not a bad dad, you're a dad who's struggling and actually doing something about it.

JJasonNew Dad3w ago

I've been there with the irritability and checking out. Once I started getting treatment, my oldest actually told me he noticed the difference. Your kids want their dad back, and you're getting there.

DDaniel R.Regular3w ago

Depression lies to you about what kind of parent you are. Get the support you need and be patient with yourself - recovery takes time, but your kids will remember that you fought for it.