Been fighting depression on and off for years but it's gotten worse since becoming a dad. Some mornings I just can't get myself out of bed mentally even though my body is up. My kids want to play and all I can think about is how exhausted I am. Started therapy last month and it's helping a bit but wanted to see if anyone else has been through this and what actually helped.
Depression's no joke and adding dad responsibilities on top of it is rough. I'd encourage you to reach out to someone you trust about this, whether it's your partner, a doctor, or a therapist. Your family needs you healthy more than they need you perfect.
The coffee helps but honestly those mornings where my brain just won't cooperate hit different now that I've got two kids depending on me. You're not alone in this fight. Have you looked into any resources or therapists who specifically work with new dads?
This hits hard. The morning fog where you can't find the energy to be who your kids need. Have you talked to someone about it getting worse? There's no shame in getting help, and your family needs you healthy.
Depression is real and it doesn't care that you're a dad. Please talk to someone if you haven't already. Your kids need you present but they also need you okay. You matter too, not just as a dad but as a person.
I've been in that space where the darkness makes it hard to show up for them. Therapy and sometimes meds aren't weakness - they're the tools you need to be the dad you want to be. Worth exploring if you haven't.
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Man, I'm only 6 weeks in and already noticing how hard it is to just be present some days. Really appreciate you sharing this because it makes me feel less alone in it. Have you been able to talk to anyone professional about it, or is that something you're considering?