Mom of young kids should ask doc about depression

I’m a college graduate, 34, who took maternity leave from a good job in my field when pregnant with my daughter, now age three, then my son, now 15 months.

I’m now part-time elsewhere. My husband’s working fulltime.

I love my kids but when I’m stuck at home and both are crying and making messes, I’m overwhelmed.

My husband gets home after they’re fed and bathed, sees them for 10 minutes, then has a leisurely dinner while I’m usually rocking a crying child.

He goes out with his friends but I’m usually too tired.

Is this my life now? Not My Expectation

This is your life, for now, but only part of it.

I get your letdown feeling about time spent with the tiring tasks of baby cleanups and care.

But that time is also when you calm and comfort your child, and transmit the security of your love.

However, you may be experiencing some post-partum depression.

The adjustment from working full-time in a chosen field to feeling stuck at home with small, fussing dependents isn’t easy.

See your doctor to check your health and for depression. It’s not uncommon and can be treated with medication and support.

Early child care isn’t a lifetime sentence.

The more you model your own adaptability, the more they’ll learn to adapt to their growing stages.

Your education and work/life experience have hopefully given you the ability to be creative in raising them and also find time for your own needs for friendship and other interests.

Staying fit is equally important for your well-being, so take those kids for walks, try mommy-and-child yoga, and fit in whatever exercise you can.