Do you let on when you're struggling?

[Astrid]

Have those moments here. It can be so tough.

I don't know myself what to say. Often I just say I am tired, sore, sick. Tiredness is very true, I have been on the verge of tears trying to get through to DD2 that she really needs to try and sleep in her own bed when the sleep deprivation has meant that I have hit a wall.

All I know is not do what my mother did which was to scream that she was about to have a nervous breakdown and it was my fault. Still to this day I am not 100% what a nervous breakdown is, so I certainly had no clue back then.

I think there has been some great advice here and I will be taking some on board myself.

[myturn]

i agree that it's good for kids to understand and learn about how you are feeling. You can't protect them from feelings, and in fact if you try, you are acutally subconsciously teaching them that talking about feelings is taboo.... a no no... and they will think if they feel bad they 'shouldn't' tell, or talk about it with you or anyone!

I think the best thing is to talk to your kids about how you feel, ask them to help you.... and then (if you can!!) show them healthy, grown up, ways of coping with your feelings - actually talking with them about what you are doing to help yourself feel better, gives them ideas, and tells them that they are responsible for their feelings AND that they CAN do it - just like you can.... but if they can't... they have learnt to reach out to others... and that is so important

[Arcadia]

Great thread! Oryx I hope you're ok