It’s best to be open & honest with your kids. Keeping Anxiety/depression a “secret” will just make your kids think it’s their fault. Not having an ongoing convo can only hurt in the long run. If you’re having a bad day, be open with your kids. Tell them so they don’t perceive your mood as their fault. Tell them, my anxiety is causing me to have a bad day today. This is a big part of why Mom needs to take care of herself too. They need to know this bad day has nothing to do with them.
Your family will not look like others and that’s totally okay. Don’t compare yourself to others or the illusion of perfection.
You are stronger than you know.
Mom, you’ve got this . It’s not easy, you know that. You were chosen to be one of the strong ones. It can be discouraging to think that you have to work harder than others; don’t let it get you down. You are used to having to work harder than most. This is one of your great strengths. You’re an incredible Mama.
Good days don’t mean that you’re cured. Enjoy the good days when they are here. Work for them. Do self care things that make you feel good. For me, when I exercise regularly, the endorphins give me a boost & help the good days stick around. Try your best & keep on truckin’.
Asking for help is a sign of STRENGTH, not weakness. Mental health stuff or not, we all need help at times. You don’t have to feel alone. Let people help you. Let them take the kids so you can do what you need.
Being a Mom can feel like a sick joke at times. When you & the kids are having a hard day, it can feel impossible. It can take so much energy just to get through the day. It can feel difficult to manage, & hard to know if you are making the right decision. Being open & honest with your kids, can help them know that Mom’s struggles aren’t about them. This may even help your child admit when they are struggling. It can help them to be more aware of their emotions. Having a convo about the challenges you feel can make it better for all.
Anxiety or not, you are still like other Moms. The kids come first. When I’m having an off day, it’s pretty clear. I’m usually not as talkative. I’ve started to say “I’m not myself today”. This helps me put it out there in a causal way if someone is trying to engage with me & I’m having trouble locking into the convo.
@TwinMomDiana 