Struggling

[AutumnMistletoe]

Currently laying here awake and unable to sleep because I'm so worried about money. DP is currently off work due to an injury he had at work which resulted in surgery and a lot of recovery time so we're pretty much just living off my wage at the moment. I'm a full time teaching assistant. We have 4 DC as well.
With Christmas and everything else I just feel the pressure building up!
I keep trying to tell myself "everything will be ok" but at the same time I can't help but worry.
At the same time I feel selfish for worrying when there are people worse off!! Argh!
My brain just needs to shhhh

I just wanted to drop in and say you are not alone, I can really identify with all that you say. All of it.

In my case, I'm the injured party. I'm also single parent to two DC and finding it punishingly difficult financially but I keep reminding myself that it won't be like this forever.

It probably helps to have found some old bank statements from 2004! I saw how much of a struggle it was back then too, and how for many years I became rich. I'm poor again now but who knows the future? Last time I was struggling I had no idea I'd have ended up richer (in my eyes) and when I was rich I didn't see it coming that I'd lose everything just like that, overnight.

I think for some people good finances make them feel more safe than others. I am one of those. When I had plenty in the bank I'd go to bed so thankful I had no money worries. But now I have very little and worry desperately about the cost of living. I deny myself so much and even with that need to cut it down further. I find it really hard. So I sympathise OP. But you are not alone.

If you have low wages and 4 children have you applied for universal credit to top up your wages?

Isn't there some type of temporary disability pay in the UK?

Enjoy being together.

Enjoy the meal together and all the freebies like house decorations, carols, church and seeing family.
Enjoy playing games.
Enjoy living in a country without war.
Things will get better.

Don't be ashamed to seek help. Speak to the children's schools they may be able to sign post help. My charity gives grants and often gets referrals from schools (and also healthcare workers). You can also find possible grant funding here https://grants-search.turn2us.org.uk/

Also use https://www.entitledto.co.uk/ to check you are getting all the benefits you should be

No there definitely isn't. They all take time.

Hopefully your DH is on sick pay while he is recovering - if not apply for Employment Support Allowance. In any case have a look at Turn2us - you may be able to claim Universal Credit for a little while. These things are in place to carry you over the bad times - I hope he recovers soon.