Idk what to do.

Hello @TIREDParent. I'm sorry things seem so overwhelming for you at the moment. You are just looking for a little light reprieve to show that the struggle is worth it. I'm not surprised you feel overloaded. I live on a tight budget too, and have mastered filling my life with things that cost little or nothing. That way I can afford to give myself a well-earned treat when I need it.

I'd make your spare time enjoying your family paramount. Perhaps go for walks together instead of a drive, join a library, garden...I don't know your interests. Relax, visit family, invite them over, ring a friend...

This may well be bad advice as I don't know you or your situation, but I couldn't let you feel unheard. Take care. Sending best wishes.

Thankyou honestly just seeing someone reply has been so nice I actually feel heard.

I dont buy myself anything ir even have credit cards or ant gym,pool, dinner or TV subscriptions so can't cut anything out of budget just wish I could make more $$ but work is tight too. I'm lucky to get anything.

I often take my son out for walks with pram during the week my husband is "working" at home so never comes I guess I should just stop expecting things and then I won't get disappointed

@TIREDParent I hear your difficulties, and I wish I could offer more support and ideas to make things better for you. I'm sorry to read of your sadness. I'm sending all good wishes and hope things get better soon. Lila3 and Gwynn have provided some thoughtful ideas. Take care of yourself.

Hi @TIREDParent I can really empathise with your situation. I really feel how tired you are and I've been there. You can read a little about that here

Your feelings are valid, despite feeling like you should feel lucky you are still feeling like it's really hard and that is OK, because it is hard! All feelings are valid. Sounds like you are missing that spontaneity of your pre-baby life. I get that too! Is there anything small you can do for yourself to have that?

As others have mentioned, support is really important. Do you have any support? Have you joined a local parents group?

It's such a big life adjustment and it sounds like you have the added pressure of financial stress. I'm wondering if you can get some financial counselling to help with your situation? Here are some links that might be helpful PANDA , https://moneysmart.gov.au/managing-debt/financial-counselling

Please take care,

Paperdaisy 💝

hello and hugs @TIREDParent , how are you going today

sitting with you

@Lila3, @Gwynn , @Historylover , @Paperdaisy , @Former-Member

looks good @Lila3

sitting with you having a cuppa with you

@Former-Member

I know right @Lila3 - having a cuppa amongst folk who get what it’s like can be so connecting. 🧡

Sorry to hear about the type of day you’re having.
I can often trip myself up by thinking either too ahead or back in the past when I’m having a harder time of things. I took that in my own meaning when you said ‘fearing the future & doing mental time travel.’

What are the types of things you’re struggling with right now?

and, Do you have people you can talk to about it?

I saw you like reading & walking, have you been able to enjoy either of those at times today?

Take care

@Former-Member