Single dad... Completely overwhelmed

rushmermh

Hi, my name is Michael. I'm 44, and live in the Greater Binghamton area of Upstate NY. I've been married for 20 years, and separated for the last 3 and a half. I have custody of my 3 boys (17, 14, and 12 years old).

I live an incredibly stressful life. My wife is emotionally (and sometimes physically) abusive to our sons and me, and has been ever since we got married. Our boys are all on the autism spectrum and have other special needs ranging from moderate to severe.

I've been overweight since I was a boy, particularly following a history of sexual abuse. I am an emotional eater, often binging when depressed or anxious.

I realize that my introduction has been terribly negative to this point, but I want you to know that inside, I consider myself to be a positive and hopeful person. I want to gain control over my bad habits and improve my health, both for me and especially for my boys.

I look forward to hearing from some of you and possibly making some new friends. Thank you for reading!

Michael

jgnatca

Hi, I raised my two children alone (one with a chronic mental illness which started to exhibit in his teens). Ex was no good. No doubt about it, being a parent is a tough but rewarding job.

It sounds like in your goal to be healthier and stronger for your boys you are going to have to be organized.

Is there a sport you all could participate in? For some odd reason, rowing comes to mind.

BewitchedBelinda99

Hi, I've been a single mum for a long time. It's not easy but sometimes its better for the kids. I still struggle now mine are all grown up but I'm mainly a positive person too. You're welcome to add me. I'm from the UK.

angelique_redhead

You can do this! Go you!

SamanthaLouiseMence

Hi, I've been a single mam (sole custody) since my baby was born… the struggle is real, but doable without a doubt
Feel free to add me… I'm from the UK x

Alluminati

Hi. I want to just say you sound like a very strong individual and I have no doubt that you will overcome and succeed. My tips to you: Read the stickies in the forums. Read lurk read lurk read and lurk some more in the various threads here. There is a lot of good info , you just have to sift through the nonsense and there are a lot of intelligent people who have been in your shoes. Stay consistent and develop new habits and above all, enjoy the process. Welcome to MFP!

rushmermh

Hi everyone. I'm surprised and humbled to have received such a warm welcome and such helpful and encouraging messages. I appreciate it more than you know.

I do have a therapist, who I trust and is very helpful to me. I have countless lifestyle changes that I need to make, but I am going to try to incorporate 1 or 2 positive changes at a time in order to develop new and better habits. For example, today I kept a food journal and went for a walk with my son - both of which I hadn't done in a long time.

I'm thankful that I stumbled upon this app - I think it will really help me as I try to become a healthier and happier person.

lulukittie

You are on the right track-- make small, manageable changes. Take it one step at a time. Best of luck to you!

dillonmonds

I'm rooting for you and really hope you succeed in your goals.

RosaF777

Congrats, I'm also a single parent of four. It's so hard being a parent to healthy teenagers let a lone to kids with mental issues. I give you props because you are there for your kids. I work with a pediatric neurology and I see daily the struggles of the parent with an autistic child. So if you have any questions add me and I'll try my best to help you in any way I can.. May God give you strength & wisdom for you & for your children..