Depression making parenting feel impossible

3w ago1 min read

I love my kids more than anything but some days I just can't get out of bed mentally, you know? Like the motivation is completely gone. I go through the motions, make sure they eat and get to school, but I'm running on empty. Wife says I should talk to someone about meds again. Just wondering if any other dads here have dealt with depression while trying to be present for their families. How did you handle it?

10 comments283 views

Comments(10)

LLucas M.Regular3w ago

I've been in that place. The guilt of not being 100 percent for your kids when you're struggling is real. But you showing up even on the hard days is what matters to them. Please reach out if you need to talk.

BBrandonRegular3w ago

I've been there. The guilt of feeling like you can't show up when your kids need you is the worst part. Please reach out to someone. Your kids need you healthy more than they need you perfect.

KKevinRegular3w ago

Those days are brutal but they do pass. In the meantime, be gentle with yourself. Some days just getting through the day is enough.

SSamuelNew Dad3w ago

You're not alone in this, man. Single dad life means some days are just survival mode and that's okay. Those days where you can't get out of bed mentally don't erase all the days you show up for them.

TTony G.Regular3w ago

Depression hits different when you're responsible for another human. You recognizing it and reaching out matters. Keep talking to people about this because your boys need their dad healthy.

BBrandon H.Regular3w ago

I get that feeling more than I want to admit. Some days the trails are the only thing that pulls me out of it, even just a short one with the boys. Your kids need you present more than they need you perfect.

DDerekNew Dad3w ago

That mental fog you're describing is real and it's not weakness. A lot of dads experience depression and don't talk about it. Have you considered reaching out to a professional?

BBrandonRegular3w ago

What you're describing sounds like postpartum depression or just the weight of new parenthood. Have you talked to anyone about this, like a doctor or therapist? You don't have to white knuckle through it alone.

PPedroRegular3w ago

You're not alone in this. Some days I feel like I'm faking it and just going through the motions. But here's what I've found - talking about it with other dads who get it actually helps. Don't try to push through solo.

EEricRegular3w ago

Hey man, I hear you. There are weeks where co-parenting on top of everything else just hits different and I can barely function. Have you talked to someone about this? Like a therapist or your doctor?