Struggling with anxiety about being a good enough dad

Jun 27·1 min read

Lately I've been spiraling about whether I'm doing enough. Not there for enough school events, working too much, not patient enough when they're acting up. Had a panic attack last week thinking about all the ways I'm messing them up. Started therapy last month and it's helping but some days are still really hard. Anyone else deal with this?

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Comments(3)

MMasonNew DadJun 27

Man, I feel this hard. Between three kids and work, I'm constantly second-guessing myself too. But my oldest told me last week that he just likes when I'm present, doesn't matter if I miss a game here and there. You're showing up and that's what counts.

RRick M.RegularJun 27

As a new dad, I'm already thinking about this stuff and my daughter's not even old enough for school events yet. The fact that you're aware and trying means you're already good enough. That anxiety you're feeling? That's just love in a weird shape.

DDerekNew DadJun 27

The co-parenting situation taught me that consistency matters way more than perfection. My daughter cares that I show up when I say I will, not that I'm at every single event. Sounds like you're already doing the hard work of caring enough to worry about it.