Momtourage > Need Advice? > I work full time, my husband travels all week and my two kids are a handful. How can I find "me time"?

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THE QUESTION :

I work full time, my husband is on the road Monday through Friday, and I have two children -- a 2-year-old girl and a 7-year-old boy who has been diagnosed with ADHD [attention deficit hyperactivity disorder] and ODD [oppositional defiance disorder]. By the end of the day, I'm exhausted. Since I have to get up at 5:45 a.m., I go to bed just minutes after the kids fall asleep. How can I get some "me time" without making my kids feel like I don't want to be around them?
 

THE ANSWER:

You describe your work day as starting at 5:45. Does that mean you have outside help in the morning when your husband is travelling? If so, is there any chance that person could help out after school -- for an hour or two once a week -- so that you could grab a cup of coffee with a friend?

 

Think of effective ways to use the people who are already a part of your support system -- your momtourage. They may be willing to help in ways you had not considered before.

 

And don't forget about exercise. It's often a very good stress reliever and many health clubs and YMCAs have kids' gym programs that allow parents to work out too. Something like that might be a good option for you and your children. Remember, you won't be able to take care of your children well unless you take time for yourself too.



Marilyn Augustyn
1 Comments
On July 15, 2009 10:34 PM
Anne-Marie said:

Hi there:

I feel your pain. I am debating resignining as I have 2 boys 11 and 8. The youngest boy has ADD and ODD and although my husband doesn't travel for work and is very involved , I am exhausted.!!! My son's behavior and overall disposition improves when I am around more and there is less rushing about therefore I think some of the basis for these 2 diagnosis is anxiety. My advice is you need to take good care of yourself as the fatigue will overwhelm you one day. I feel the only way out for me is to take time off and recouperate.


AM

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