Depression making it hard to be the dad I want to be

2w ago1 min read

Some days I just feel empty and irritable. My kids want to play with me and I'm sitting on the couch scrolling mindlessly because I have no energy. Then I feel guilty which makes the depression worse. I snapped at my son yesterday for nothing and he got quiet. That's when I realized I need help. Started therapy last week. Just wanted to put this out there in case anyone else is going through similar stuff. It's not weakness to ask for help.

10 comments151 views

Comments(10)

BBenNew Dad2w ago

This resonates with me. I found that getting professional help made a real difference in how I show up for my kids. Depression lies to you and tells you you're failing them, but reaching out and getting support is actually the best thing you can do FOR them.

DDannyRegular2w ago

I hear you. That couch feeling is real. The guilt of wanting to engage but just not having anything left in the tank is brutal. Have you talked to anyone about it or just trying to push through?

BBenNew Dad2w ago

Man, I feel this hard. The emptiness is real and it's tough when they want to engage and you just have nothing left to give. Have you talked to anyone about what you're experiencing? I started doing 5am runs before everyone wakes up and it's been a game changer for my mental state, but I also needed to actually address the depression itself, not just manage the symptoms.

TTony F.Regular2w ago

Real talk, what you're describing matters and it's brave to say it out loud. That empty feeling when your kids want to play but you've got nothing left is rough. Maybe start with even five minutes of something instead of scrolling, see if that helps break the cycle a bit.

JJamal W.Regular2w ago

I hear you. Some days my energy is completely gone and everything feels like too much. Have you talked to someone about it? Sometimes just having that conversation with a professional can start to shift things.

VVincent L.New Dad2w ago

You're still showing up even on the hard days, and that counts for something. Depression lies to you about what kind of dad you are. If you're not already, reach out to someone who can actually help with this.

NNate B.Regular2w ago

The emptiness and irritability combo is no joke. You're not a bad dad for struggling with this. Sounds like something bigger than just needing a vacation. Worth checking in with your doctor about.

RRob H.Regular2w ago

Man, I've been in that spot. The shame of sitting on the sidelines while they want to engage is the worst part. But kids are resilient and they love you even on the hard days. You matter.

DDavidNew Dad2w ago

Your kids just want YOU there, not a perfect version of you playing with endless energy. Even sitting together counts. Have you considered talking to a doctor about how you're feeling?

MMike R.Regular2w ago

You're not alone in this. Some days are just harder than others and that's okay. The fact that you want to be better for your kids shows you care. Maybe start small - even 10 minutes of something that helps you feel less empty, whether that's a walk or talking to someone. Your kids would rather have you present for 20 good minutes than absent for 2 hours on the couch.