Need some encouraging words to get out with the kids

[mafroufrou]

Posted here recently about taking old ADs but I've stopped as they were causing awful side effects.

Today is my first day alone with the DC (nursery age and Y1 primary) and I'm still in my pyjamas but need to take them out and do something. My DH normally does all fun activities with them and I'm feeling anxious and worried that people are looking at me or that they'll be naughty.

I hate this feeling. Any supportive words would be appreciated. My cbt previous counselling is not registering in my stupid head today.

Hi ma, I've just come on the board for some advice and noticed the thread you started yesterday and I could've written the title myself!

I'm feeling pretty much like you at the moment - I havevsome citalopram from last year and wondering whether to start taking them again because my depression is coming back and I can't kid myself it's just a phase any longer. Can't get a GP appointment for 2 weeks.

I've never had CBT, but was offered it last year. Does it do any good? All I want to do today is lie down and lose myself in a book but my three year old wants to go out and I feel so guilty. I can't face outside today. So, I'm giving him free reign of the back garden to collect twigs and leaves and a huge toilet roll to unravel as he wants to make a nest! Later on it'll be a long bubbly bath. I know it sounds awful but I just can't engage with him today.

I hate feeling like this. Ugh.

Sending you a squashy hug, in case you need one.

Just realised my post didn't sound particularly supportive, so sorry about that. How are you feeling right now? Have you managed to get out with the kids?

Thanks for replying ralphgnu. I didnt get any replies earlier on here, so I challenged myself using the cbt techniques, I got up got changed got DC to play in garden whilst I put out washing and then we went to the local park (one of the quiter ones due to my fear of being watched and judged) for about an hour. I took them to the library too. Probably the most I've done with them and despite a few tantrums I coped. I'm really tired now!

I understand where you are coming from and that need to hide away (I like what you planned for him, very imaginitative). I really had to force myself and although I wouldn't say I enjoyed it immensely I managed to overcome some of the negative thoughts and paranoia and do it.

I would look into cbt as although it takes huge willpower with changing your minds way of thinking, it does help. Good luck and make small steps.

Sending you squashy hugs back to

Hello, I often feel the same, overwhelmed and fearful. I have a 10 month old who is becoming more 'tantrum-y' by the day (bless her) which makes me feel nervous about going out too.

I have to today as I need to get things for the holiday we're going on tomorrow but am very anxious about it. Like you ma I think people are looking at me all the time. In reality, people are pretty much self absorbed in what they're doing when out shopping and playing with the DCs etc but I wish my brain would get that!

Just wanted to say I understand.