Hey Dads, I’m a single dad of two, a 5 year old and 2 year old. I have diagnosed severe depression and anxiety, with the latter being highly exacerbated by my extremely extroverted hyperactive children.

I am trying my best to be a good dad but some days it’s so hard. Since I’ve seperated, I’ve moved back in with my parents who live in a shoebox villa, and to a degree I think my parenting style will be better when I am fully and completely on my own.

But the other factor is, I really struggle to play with my kids. I used to be so happy and full of life, but over time and with the deterioration of my mental health I’ve just become fully incapable of even a smile let alone being joyful and happy. I’m very logical and serious by nature so bringing the playful side out is hard on a good day let alone the bad.

Tbh, I feel like a piece of shit father and a human. I know my kids love me, but I really don’t think I’m deserving of it.