“I have been feeling short and irritable lately. Why is this?”

Dear Single Parent,

It is a difficult job to be a single parent. So, have compassion for yourself. You said that lately you are getting easily irritated and end up shouting too much and then regret it. What is irritating you? What is causing the stress in your life? What can you do about it so it is not manifested in shouting? These are the things that only you know. So, either find a licensed psychologist in your area or a single parent's group to work out the issues so that you can then not engage in behaviors that you subsequently regret. 

Take care,

Dr. Lata Sonpal

Irritability is often a sign of depression. It would be wise for you to see a psychotherapist to get evaluated. If you should be diagnosed with depression, rest assured that it can be treated successfully either with cognitive behavioral therapy or with medication. In any case, it would be wise for you to talk with a professional to evaluate your situation. 

You possibly may be feeling overly stressed out or not getting enough sleep. Try doing deep breathing, muscle tension reduction, and creating a peaceful place when you sense that you are getting irritable as calming strategies. Try some mindfulness apps if you have a smart phone - like Calm, 1 Giant Mind, or Insight Timer.

It can be very hard being a single parent. Stress can come and go. This may pass soon. Just try to see how you would feel as one of your children and remember they don’t think as much as they react and that they truly love you. Then see about taking an evening out for yourself and have someone watch them for you. You should do this once a week.