For you single moms out there like me, who have no other parent in the picture and it's just you and your kiddo(s), how did you manage stress and depression? I understand every situation is different, and others manage stress and such more than me, but I can't seem to handle it well at all. It takes everthing I have not to punch the wall, scream, anything when I'm so overwhelmed and upset. My DD is 3, and is at that stage where everything, EVERYTHING, makes her cry. Or she doesn't listen anymore, y'know, the stage every kid goes through at one point or another. Maybe being on my period today, and it being the worst its ever been, has a lot to do with it. But I can't handle parenting alone anymore. It just makes me so sad. I've been struggling since my DD was conceived with work and money, and have tried to do it alone until now, but the money I'm getting from work only pays for rent and gas (my DD and I live in another state than any family), and daycare. I barely see her, I can't afford toys or anything. Her birthday passed on Sunday, and she didn't get a cake, toys or a party, because I can't afford it. It was a wake up call to me when I cried myself to sleep that night, so I'm moving 2 states over to live with my parents. I feel like a failure as a mom, and I'm just so lonely.
I know it'll get easier for both her and I when she starts school, but I can't seem to get over my depression. Any words of encouragement?
and before anyone who has more than one kiddo and is going through this, please don't try to tell me that you have it harder than me. Like I stated before, everyone handles situations differently.



Second, take a hot bath with candles and music and wine.
Write in a journal, crochet, do crafts you want to try. There are gobs to try and materials can be bought at the dollar store.
Go for walks in the park. Let your dd explore and get messy. Make mud pies with her. Go to the beach and look for shells.

One day at a time. When that's too much, one hour at a time. When that's too much, 15 minutes at a time.

- mariere
on May. 7, 2014 at 10:20 PM