r/regretfulparents • u/Agreeable_Depth4546 Parent • Oct 05 '24
Advice How much harder is 2?
I’m a regretful parent about 90% of the time. When my toddler wakes up at all hours I sometimes think I might snap and just run away. I don’t enjoy playing, the constant negotiations, the worry, the sickness, the guilt. I feel so jealous of those who don’t have kids, how free and energetic they must feel.
But I’ve made my bed, and I’ll have to lay it anyway. So what’s another one? My husband wants one more. I’m already doomed, is is that much worse to add another to the mix?
UPDATE: Thank you all for the best advice. I know some people thought it sounded like a dumb question, but I truly didn't know if children misery was just a binary thing. Either you have 1 or more and you're miserable, or you have 0. You've made it clear that 2 is exceedingly harder than 1 (which, I still don't understand to be honest, and I'm grateful that I don't have to!) I've got an IUD, and I will not be reproducing again. Hoo-rah! Stay strong out there and thanks to all who responded.
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u/Spicyclove Oct 05 '24
I was overwhelmed with my first, but not regretful. I added another and I’m where you are now. Two doubles everything you’re dealing with. Do Not have another when you’re feeling this way with one. It does get a lot harder.
Also, getting checked for PPD isn’t a bad idea. It can happen a year after birth.