No sleep/Depression
 

I just moved to new state and quit my job in hopes that i would be able to heal. My plan backfired. I have 2 boys and we had a night nurse that would come 3-4 days a week and this allowed me to catch up and be able to function somewhat normally.

I have been the primary person getting up at night taking care of boys as my wife works. My 1 year old is not sleep trained and our attempts have been unsuccessful so he wakes up 1-2 around 1am,3am, and then 5am and 6am. We have to put him car seat to fall asleep and then try to transfer him. I'm losing my mind.

In the past, i've had ups and downs but i've literally been feeling like crap every day since we moved. My relationship has suffered and we argue all the time during the night because I can't handle it.

I miss my old job and routine and there are no jobs in this state that fit my talents(trading). I'm in extreme pain from no sleep so it's hard to exercise and do things that make me feel better. I've thought about not wanting to live but I can't bear thought of leaving my kids. It's just not a fulfilling life when every second is agony and my relationship is likely beyond repair.

I am severely depressed. I am 5 years post car accident and have struggled but kept a positive attitude. I've never felt this hopeless before. Dr. prescribed cymbalta but I don't want to get on medicine when I think sleep is such a large part of my problem.

Sounds like a very difficult situation, and sorry to hear of your struggles...

Without sleep Im useless and cant even function normally.

Try and hang in there because better days are ahead as the kids grow...

Meds may not be your first choice but sometimes we need to take steps just to move forward. As you say, sleep is important and being settled emotionally may help you sleep better. If you and your wife can sleep through some baby sounds, he may learn to put himself back to sleep.

When ours were young, we learned to keep them awake late so they would be exhausted and sleep longer. A small meal before putting him down can help him sleep deeper. At 1 yo, he does not need lots of naps during the day if they interfere with his sleep at night.