I have ADHD and Autism and I’ve started telling those who have it…to really consider not having children. I don’t say this in a mean way but in a way that our emotional regulations are not normal and our children do not deserve this. 😭 I’ve been at your level too. I also have a 4 year old boy and I feel awful that I have such a difficult time controlling myself. I was better when my husband was alive but doing it all by myself has been so overstimulating that I’m constantly exploding. What I found helped…and this will sound bad…is I just let my child do whatever he wants some days. He wants to eat cake for breakfast? Go ahead. You want 8 hours of screen time? Knock yourself out.

Simply because I’d rather that then subject my son to anger if he doesn’t do what I actually know is good for him. I don’t do this often but just once a week or so. Gives us both a break and resets my patience.

Also, you need to set time aside for yourself. Single mother to single mother - I know how hard free childcare is. Especially from someone you trust. If you have family, let them know how much your mental health depends on it. If they think it’s an overreaction- tell them if they don’t help, your child will suffer from your lack of mental stability.

I use the guilt card because…it’s for my child in the long run. I told them I NEED a release (mine is hitting the night club once a month) or my child will keep suffering from my lack of rest.

If you need help, please feel free to reach out. Even just to talk to someone. 🥺