CollyvaleA little place for big feelings.Looking after little ones is done by all sorts of people. Whoever you are, there's a seat for you at the Kitchen Table.
Gus, the Collywobble dad, says the hardest bit isn't the diapers or the noise. It's feeling like you're supposed to just get on with it.
Dads feel worry, tiredness, loneliness and low mood too, including after a new baby arrives. You're allowed to find it hard, and you're allowed to ask for help. Talking to a friend, your partner or your doctor is a strong thing to do, not a weak one.
Where to turn: Your doctor. NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 (nami.org).
Whether you help out once a week or every day, you're a big part of a little one's world. It's OK to love it and also feel tired by it. It's OK to say what you can and can't manage.
If you're raising a child who isn't your own, perhaps a grandchild, niece, nephew or family friend, you may be juggling love, worry, paperwork and your own feelings about how things came to be. You deserve support too.
Where to turn: GrandFamilies (grandfamilies.org) for kinship caregivers. Child Welfare Information Gateway (childwelfare.gov). For foster parents, your foster care agency or caseworker.
Collyvale offers general information and gentle ideas for families. It is not a medical, mental-health, legal or financial advice service and does not replace professional advice. If you're struggling, please talk to your doctor, or visit Signposts for trusted organizations who can help. In an emergency, call 911.