Hi I’m reaching out in need of some support and guidance.
I’m a single parent to two children and have been for the past two years. their father has no involvement in their lives. This transition has been extremely difficult. I work full time as a manager in a high-pressure role, and with very little support around me, balancing work and parenting has become overwhelming.
Over the past five years, I’ve faced some major personal challenges — including the sudden loss of a parent and discovering my husband’s affair, both of which happened very close together. These experiences deeply affected my mental health, and I suspect I may be dealing with some form of PTSD.
I love my children more than anything, but parenting — especially alone — has felt incredibly hard.
Recently, my son was diagnosed with ADHD, which has helped explain the years of struggles with emotional regulation, impulsive behavior, and meltdowns. While the diagnosis gives some clarity, it also brings new challenges. He has begun medication but this has had no positive effect so far.
Because I can't afford after-school childcare, I pick the kids up myself every day and try to manage them while still working. This feels impossible at times. My children love each other but argue and bicker constantly, which demands my attention nonstop. The school regularly contacts me about my son’s behavior, and I find myself dreading pickup each day, expecting more difficult news.
I have no real break from parenting and no social life. I constantly feel depleted. I’ve spoken with my GP and take sertraline, but so far, I haven’t noticed much improvement in my mood.
I desperately want to be the best parent I can be, but I often feel impatient and stretched to my absolute limit. Some days, I barely find time to eat or brush my teeth. Every day feels like survival mode.
I’m just looking for support — practical, emotional, or even just a listening ear — to help me find a way forward.
Thank you for reading.