Self-care attempt #1: Failed spectacularly

6d ago·1 min read

Tried to take a "mental health day" and stay home while wife took the kids out. Plan was to nap, watch a show, feel refreshed. Instead I spent 3 hours doom-scrolling and feeling guilty about not doing laundry. Then I did the laundry which defeated the purpose. Then I felt anxious that I wasn't doing "real" self-care. It's like my brain won't let me just... rest. Anyone have this problem or tips for actually being able to chill?

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Comments(4)

TTyler K.Regular4d ago

Real talk: you might need to plan the day differently next time. Like literally put your phone in another room. The nap part was solid, the show was solid, but scrolling kills both those things. Try again with actual structure

MMike R.New Dad4d ago

The guilt spiral is the worst part. You spent your day off not 'optimizing rest' but that's still time you weren't working or managing the household - that counts for something even if your brain won't let you feel it

RRuben A.New Dad4d ago

lol doom-scrolling while feeling guilty about doom-scrolling. That's the dad special right there

NNolan J.Regular6d ago

I did the same thing and realized I was waiting for my wife to come home so I could 'earn' the rest. Like I needed permission. She finally told me to stop checking the door and just exist. Easier said than done but helped me understand the guilt was self-imposed