I've reached my limit.

[user2814]

Hi,

I have reached my limit with what I can cope with, I'm actually done. Before it seemed to be a case of spinning plates and keeping them going, now I don't think I can manage one plate. I don't really know how to unpick it and being 'coping' again.

The last week felt pretty major for me. Prior to this I was ticking along juggling my disaster of my finances (I don't work, not that I won't or can't, it financially doesn't work out with childcare and hours. Finding another at home job is similar to finding hens teeth).

I've been finding my children quite exasperating, they have flitted between highly clingy, whining, demanding and being lovely. I am married but he isn't here when they are awake, closest family is an hour and a half away. The eldest doesn't nap anymore, so there is limited respite. I fill as much as possible into their waking day with groups, preschool and activities but I'm pretty shattered.

Over the course of the last 4/5 months I have found my mood swings to be unbearable, angry and aggressive. Having gone to the doctors last week it seems I have severe PMT, which I have been prescribed medication for but I don't think I can take as I'm still breastfeeding and a little bit reluctant to as I don't want to effect my child. But on the other hand, I don't particularly feel I'm a nice person when I have these mood swings.

Last week I was also told that my mum has cancer. I have spent most of the days feeling numb and in shock, through to denial.

How to I being to feel normal and coping again?

user

so sorry to read about how difficult things are.
there is definitely something to be said for being ok with not being ok, that feeling 'flat' for want of a better description IS a normal state of mind.

I believe & have discovered (through exceptionally challenging personal experiences) that being able to accept your state of mind for what it currently is, and not what you think it should be, has the effect of lessening resultant anxiety and stress.

Do you think that is something you could try and practice?
you have a lot on your plate and are doing so much with your kids - that says a lot about your dedication to them, i think. Hold any positives you can close to your heart. I promise it helps

Hi user2814,

We're really sorry you're feeling so low.

We hope you don't mind but we're going to move your thread over to our Mental Health topic where we're sure you'll get plenty of support and advice. You've posted in our Woolly Hugs topic which isn't really the right place (though they're a very lovely bunch).

We also thought we'd add a link to our Mental Health webguide which has a list of organisations which may be able to give you some support in real life too.

We really hope you're okay. for you OP, and for your mum.

The Breastfeeding Network have a drugs in breastmilk helpline which will tell you if the drugs you have been prescribed can be taken while breastfeeding. Email the [https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/detailed-information/drugs-in-breastmilk/ service] through the link here - they are lovely.

You sound worn out. Tiny children are extremely stressful and wearing as is illness in a loved one. It would be abnormal to feel peachy in these circumstances. I am not saying that trying to minimise how you feel. Perhaps you can take a bit of comfort in it. This is where you are now and there are good reasons for feeling as you do. And they will pass and the part that they contribute to your feelings will pass with them.

And keep going back to the GP for long term help and if what they suggests doesn´t work after a reasonable time, tell them.