anyone feel depressed before going back to work?

foreverapartofme

It has been so amazing being home with my DD.  The past nine weeks have flown!  I've been having so much fun watching her grow and interact. I've never been happier in my life. 

 Tomorrow I start back to work and I've been non-stop crying!  I just can't bear the thought of leaving her.  My heart feels like it is breaking. Did anyone else feel this way? Does it really get better?

Ecy

Yep, this was me too! I was very sad and loved being home with my DD. The first couple of weeks were really hard being back at work too. I had trouble focusing, cried often and was just a big mess.

Then after about a month, it started getting easier and now, while I do miss her during the day, it's nothing like it was in the beginning. I don't feel terrible anymore. I see how wonderful she thrives at DC and I love all the people that are with her during the day. She doesn't cry when I drop her off since she has been going since 3.5 months old.

It really does get better! I promise!!! You gotta give it a little bit of time though. Don't make any major decisions in that first month. I was ready to walk out of my teaching job & cancel my contract on the first day because I thought there was no way I could do it. So glad I didn't do this. I love the balance of work and motherhood now. I would like to have a job where I got to spend time with more adults during the day vs. 185 hormonal teenagers but I still appreciate getting to do my work that I love and have my beautiful and happy DD to go to everyday.

You will get through this but it may take a bit to get used to. I hope the transition goes well for you. Hugs!!!

mylittlesunshine

I had a very hard time going back to work. I went back when DD was only 6 weeks old. It didn't help that I was suffering from PPD/PPA as well.

Yes, it is extremely hard to leave your lo for the first time, but I promise (as will many others) that it does get easier. When you go back tomorrow, it is ok to call your daycare and check in as much as you want. Take some pictures with you to decorate your office/cubical. Maybe have a lunch date with your DH.

And probably the most important thing I can tell you is give it some time. It took me a good month or two until I felt in the swing of things again once I went back to work. Also, it will be an adjustment for DD as well, so if she is having a fussy night after daycare, don't think it is because you left her to go to work.