Juggling Motherhood, Depression & Uncertainty
It’s been a few weeks since I’ve posted here. Not because I didn’t have anything to say, but because I’ve just been drained—mentally, emotionally, and physically. Every day feels like a juggling act I never signed up for. And lately, I’ve been dropping more balls than I can catch.
I’ve been looking for work for almost nine months now. Nine months of sending out CVs, refreshing my inbox, and getting excited over jobs that end up leading nowhere. Nine long months of rejection emails, closed doors, and silence. I apply, I follow up, I interview—and still, nothing. And each time I hear, “We regret to inform you,” a little piece of me chips away. Not because I’m not capable, but because I am trying so hard, and it still doesn’t seem to be enough. I’m exhausted from trying and still seeing nothing come from it.
So now I’m thinking outside the box. I’ve been researching self-employment ideas, trying to find ways to create income without relying on a 9–5. But let’s be real—it’s tough starting anything new when you don’t have your own space. When you’re sharing spaces, juggling emotions, and trying to make it all look manageable for your children. It makes it hard to focus or create structure. Every decision takes twice the effort, and every plan feels like it’s built on shaky ground.
To make things even more stressful, the kids finish school this week. That means nearly two months of trying to keep them busy, safe, and happy without any extra support. There’s no spare budget for trips, camps, or activities. How do I keep them entertained, enriched, and emotionally safe when I barely have the resources to do that for myself?
Their father hasn’t offered any extra help. I’ve asked. I’ve hinted. I’ve explained how overwhelmed I am. I’ve practically begged. But the responsibility, like always, falls on me. It’s frustrating beyond words. I didn’t ask to do this alone, but here I am—trying to be the rock, the comfort, the provider, and the soft place to land.
And I won’t lie—there’s a constant guilt I carry. The guilt of not being able to give them what I want to. Of not having a clear plan for the summer. Of constantly having to stretch what little I do have to cover everything. And on top of that, there’s the silent weight of my own mental health, pressing down heavier each day.
But even when I’m running on empty, I keep going. Not because I have it all together, but because I have to. Because my children depend on me. And even though some days I feel like I’m barely making it, I know I’m doing my best with what I have—and sometimes, that has to be enough.
✨ Reflection
If you’re a single mum trying to figure things out while battling exhaustion, stress, or depression—know that you’re not the only one. What’s helping you cope right now? How are you planning the summer holidays on a tight budget? I’d love for you to share your experiences or ideas in the comments. We need each other more than we think.
🌸 Affirmation
Even when I feel like I’m falling apart, I’m still showing up. And that counts for something.
Signed,
The Comforting Mum 🤎
The Comforting Mum 
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