Finding strength!

[Mumofteens4892]

Any tips for "keeping your head when all about you are losing theirs"?

My 15 year old (with SEN) refuses to go to school about half the time. He's not interested in school/college and is not studying for any GCSEs, which worries me. My younger son is pretty easy but needs a close eye kept on him!

My husband told me last night that he is leaving me. He's quite abusive so that's probably a good thing.

I work 2 jobs (about 10 hours work per day and 5 per day at the weekend), I hate my boss, and my job is under threat because the company is struggling. I do most of the cooking / shopping / housework...etc. Lots of my friends are also facing difficulties, and people's lives just seem to be generally getting harder and more chaotic.

When my husband leaves, money will be very tight indeed and I will have to work even more to cover the rent. Not sure how/when!

I exercise, I eat well, I usually sleep ok. I have no health issues - I am very lucky. I NEED to keep my head above water but I must say, I am really starting to struggle. I've been tired and stressed for years. I have to keep it together for my kids - it is a rocky road ahead for the 3 of us without my husband.

Tips on self-care and inner strength?

Oh wow!!! I think you are doing amazingly. You are working around 60 hours a week, have a school-refusing child with SEN, a younger child, you are facing work worries, have friends in crisis and an abusive husband but you find time for self care and sound so strong and capable in your post.

make your useless, horrible husband pay every penny he should, lawyer up and start looking for a new work role as you really sound like you would be an asset to any company and hopefully you can find something better paid with fewer hours and stress.

and just look in the mirror and tell yourself you are doing great as you really are.

My thoughts were exactly those of @Mediumred sending you courage and best wishes op.
Not sure I have many tips but when I need strength I talk to people I know care for me and try to find someone to share humour with.
Not exactly a magic wand but that's my best boost.
When things have been too bad for too long I've accessed taking therapy for a neutral person to help me vent/process, I'm lucky in my area that low level talking therapy is really available. I think friends and family can only listen so much as they all have their own problems and one doesn't want nice relationships to become all about moaning if you can help it, you want them to have joy in there.