And I didn't have a good answer. We were in the car and he just asked "Why are you sad, daddy?" and I froze. I wasn't even thinking about anything specific, just have this low-level depression that sits with me most days. How do you explain that to a 4yo? I just said I was tired but it made me realize he notices my mood more than I thought. Kinda sobering.
This is the stuff they don't prepare you for in parenting books. Sounds like you're doing fine though.
The fact that he noticed and asked shows he cares about you. Maybe that's the real answer right there? My 3yo did this once and it actually made me feel better somehow.
I've found it helps to be honest but simple with them. Told my 4yo I was having a hard day and needed some quiet time. He actually gave me a hug and left me alone for like 10 minutes lol.
That's such a tough moment. I had something similar with my 5yo and just told him daddy was having a sad day but that it would get better. He seemed okay with that answer. Kids are more understanding than we give them credit for.
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You don't need to have all the answers. Just being real with your kid about emotions is huge. My therapist actually said kids handle honesty way better than we think.