I lost motivation to take care of myself

[Gratefultothestranger]

I have a 16 months old DS I love to bits. Ever since he was born I lost all the motivation to take care of myself. DH and I are both working with no family around. Every day feels like a battle with no respite and I have no motivation to do good things for myself. I need to lose 2 stones from pregnancy but the only joy I get at the moment is from food. I can't even find motivation to brush my teeth sometimes so I need to drag myself around to do things.
I'm very fortunate to have a healthy DS, a partner who pulls his weight and able to afford a cleaner but I just feel drained and tired all the time. Does it ever get better? Does parenting get easier?

I feel the same a lot of days, motherhood is hard especially working full time. What helps me is to have a dedicated set time where DH takes baby out for a walk/playpark/soft play and this is my time to shower, shave tan etc.

Have you thought about iron supplements also as you may be deficient?

How is your mental health? PPD can be linked with lack of motivation. Maybe have a look at meditation and mindfulness

Also buy some new clothes and makeup and clear out anything that doesn't fit or make you feel good. Don't keep hold of clothes thinking you'll lose the 2 stone, it's been nearly 5 years for me, iv accepted I have a new shape and have bought flattering clothes which help me feel good about myself.

I know this is all easier said than done but working at some things will hopefully help you

I think it does get easier to carve out some time for yourself. My eldest was 4 and my youngest 2 when I started feeling like I wanted to make more effort taking care of myself. Before then there was never time or I felt guilty for spending the time/money away from them. It started with getting my hair done properly, then nails, then gym. It's not excessive amounts of time but I feel so much better mentally for it.

I agree with PP about the clothes too. I was squeezing into old clothes for years which made me feel awful but also look so much bigger than I was. Chucking them out and accepting the body I now have was the first step towards feeling better about myself.

It gets better I promise.

My kids 13 and 10, and I finally feel as though I can concentrate on myself. It's a rediscovery actually.

I'd say keep things as simple and easy as possible. Doesn't mean you let yourself go though. Take supplements, keep hair shiny and simply styled. Aim to look neat and clean.

Priorities the things that make you look most groomed.

Clothes wise, a range of well cut coats with a good bag when out and about will cover a lot of sins, and a big pair of sunglasses helps too.

Up your protein intake to stop snacking, don't over diet, or starve yourself.

Also ask for help!!!!!!

I not sure this sounds normal.
This sounds more than just new mum tiredness.
You may want ti check with the GP
I had a dd who didn't sleep well for the first year.
Try eating 3 healthy meals.
Don't scrimp on the calories yet (even if you are trying to loose weight)
Make sure you get meat protein every day.
Try to avoid too much salt (crips) as that will drain you.
Even if you comfort eat as well make sure you stick to this.
Once you're eating better you will find it a bit easier to lose the weight.
Try and get 20 mins of walking every day.