Feeling like a bad mom for being so tired all the time

[Jilian]

I feel bad for my DS. I'm exhausted all the time. All I want to do is lay on the couch when we get home. DS wants to play and run around like usual and I just can't. DP usually works late, so he can't run around with DS while I rest. Poor DS has been watching a lot of movies. I hope this exhaustion passes quickly.

[todavia]

jillian - i know how you feel. i've been really tired too, and sore and a little cranky - definitely not the Ideal Mom i'd like to be.

i'm counting on the fact that 'this too shall pass' and we will get our energy back and the kids will not suffer from watching a little extra tv for a few weeks. just like we 'talked' about before, do what you can when you can and don't beat yourself up about it.

it's impossible to be everything to everyone and while, of course, your son is still a top priority, you need to listen to your body and take care of yourself right now too.

if you really feel like your son needs a more active playmate, are there any other family (older cousins, aunts, uncles) or neighbors with kids who could help out a little when you need to rest? or can you get some dvd's that are more physically oriented, like with music and dancing?

HTH...

[Laurorama73]

I am right there with ya. By the time we're home from school and work, all I can muster after dinner is laying on the couch. I am useless and fast asleep by 9 every night.
I know I was beat with DS, but it's so much harder now with someone to look after too.
I think it's important to make it a priority to rest when you can and know that in a little while you'll feel energetic again.

[saratchka]

I feel exactly the same. I'm in a real crunch at work right now, and I am not doing my work well, nor am I being the mother I want to be for DD. The deepest exhaustion had passed by about 10 weeks last time, so I'm trying to rest as much as I can now, eat well, and just hang on my my fingernails until I get past this hump.

I second the idea of brining in another adult (anyone you trust) to spend a little active time with your DC and give you a little rest. It can make a huge difference! I'm doing that, to a degree, but I have to work while I have the help - resting isn't an option.

[Jenaka]

I feel the same way. I definetely haven't been the best mom lately. I've been trying to communicate to my DD why mommy is feeling and actting this way and trying to acknowledge her feelings about this also. She probably doesn't understand a whole lot right now, but I know she can tell that our family dynamic is changing. I've started relying on family members to help me out more lately. Seems to help a little

[MammaV]

You're not a bad mom for being tired and spending time on the couch. We all go through this super tired stage. Yesterday I napped an hour when DS went down. DD - 5 had the run of the house to herself and did just fine. THe house was a huge mess, but oh well. When preggo the last time I fell asleep on the couch w/ DS napping and DD put makeup on me. I couldn't believe I had slept through the whole thing...It's ok to be tired and to rest. It might be a good time to introduce your child to a new quiet - amuse self - kind of activity or game. Lincoln logs, blocks, safety scissors and washable glue. Don't hesitate in using family and willing friends to help you out. I have a great neighbor who will take my kids for a couple of hours so I can rest. I've done the same for her during her pregnancies...Good luck. This too shall pass, but it comes back again at the end...