Going Crazy... Stay at home mom needs help

Question

I have only been a stay at home mom for a little over a year. I worked part-time after my first son was born, then stayed home full time after my second son. It is the hardest job I have ever done. There are days where I loose it. Today is one of those days. Example: My oldest decided to take everything he could reach in my closet and throw it in the floor. Dishes aren't done, tubs are nasty, the house is trashed, I haven't showered... How do I keep my sanity? I need a break but can't leave. What do you do in this situations?

Answer 1

Why can't you leave the house?  When I have days like that I split.  We go out for lunch or go to Wal-Mart or something.  The park, the library, we go somewhere.  I can deal with the house later, when I'm calmer.

Answer 2

I'm a SAHM too.

You should be playing with your children! That's what you're there for!

Gather them together, find something cool to do together, and put a smile on your face. Gee, maybe you'll laugh and enjoy being with them!

Answer 3

rent them movies .. and popcorn and .. juices.. sit them down .. and let them get distracted.. then u get your chores done .. and then relax and enjoy the movies with themm!

Answer 4

It seems that you have not found your routine since you chose to stay home with your children.  Wonderful choice, but establishing a routine will help you make progress and enjoy your time more.  

I experienced somewhat the same when I retired.  I had to find a new routine.  Putting blinders on the the housework, etc does not work.  I tried that too.  

Answer 5

I feel your pain!  Just do one thing at a time.  Get yourself a shower, then do the dishes.  Then get the kids out of the house and let them run in the park or someplace so that they can't do any more damage. LOL When your husband gets home, he's in charge of getting the kids fed so that you can attend to some other things.

Answer 6

I wouldn't make a habit of it, but if there is a Grandma around call her! She has probably been in your shoes and would understand the need for 1 day off. Get the chores caught up, soak in the tub, and you will sit there and realize you actually miss the little boogers after a short time! I have stayed at home for the last 5 yrs and it took the first 3 to realize that I can ask for help! We have a 24/7, 365 day a year job, with no pay, no sick days, and very little acknowledgment. Would anyone else take a job like that and not ask for a day off? Think not! Grandma might give a little I told you so, but she will be thrilled for the time with them!

Answer 7

I feel the same way you do.  I was looking for some answers from other people.  

Often, I feel stuck at home, although I wouldn't want anyone else watching my children. Plus, any childcare can break the bank if you're on a budget.  

I recently told my husband that although I like spending time with him, I need at least a 2 hour "me" time every week, out of the house.  If he's going to be out of town for  a long time, I will need even more.  

Batteries won't run if they are not recharged. :)  

I've been telling myself that I can either have a clean house, or enjoy my kids, and as hard as it is, I'm turning my priority to enjoying my kids.  Sometimes, still, I feel like I haven't done anything if the house isn't clean and the dinner isn't made by the time my hubby comes home.  Even though I've stayed home for the sake of spending time with my children, I feel guilt for just sitting around with them playing trains, or Barbies.  But, that's the point of staying with them,isn't it: to give them the foundation for knowing that they are loved and worth your time?  

I'm right there with you.  It's tough to watch the house get destroyed NON-stop.  :)  Mostly I'm glad I'm not the only one that feels like I'm losing it sometimes.  Thanks for the question. :)

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PS - Mother's Day Out programs are great if they are available.  If you have any room in your budget, an occassional maid may be worth every penny for the sense of peace a clean house can bring.  

Answer 8

Look for a "Mommy's Day/Morning Out" service in your area. Lot of local churches have them and they're usually pretty cheap. You need some time out of your house or you'll go insane!