Hello. I hope you have room for a newbie to join in.

I am married, have a beautiful little boy who is the light of my life. I am also a step-mom (SM) which is where a lot of my problems come from.

I have always battled a little with depression and anxiety and there is a family history. Being a SM seems to be my biggest obstacle. For the most part I get along with my SK's mom, but whenever she gets upset about something, I freak out and worry about what she might do because she is mad, or if there is going to be some kind of consequence. And it's usually something stupid that sets her off. Anyway, I let little things worry me and I really work myself up over them. I know I shouldn't do it, but I really and truly cannot seem to help myself.

Can I talk?
D

hello. there is room for everyone here.:wave:

i'm not an important person here. just a depressed person trying to cheer up other depressed people. makes me feel like i'm accomplishing something. sounds like you would benefit from some counseling? have you thought of that? they can help in ways you wouldn't think possible. i have been in counseling for a while now and found out some stuff i didin't know about myself and i'm real thankful for that. they are more of a good friend and listener and help with advise.

sounds touch but if you can get this other person to go too. i don't know the whole situation though. i know its hard but it takes a stronger person to let things go instead of drag on. wishing you peace...:p

Thank you for the welcome and the advice. I appreciate it. :)

I am new to the boards too! Maybe we will find some good "friends" on here and people that can give us strength to keep going.

Does the children's mom live in the same city as you? If so, is there no way to work it out where you don't have to see her?

Hi
Ive been a step mum, and its the hardest thing in the world....the kids, the ex, your own partner, ( Ive been in 3 relationships with step children ) Still keep in contact with them all, the kids , not the ex's! Its like juggling too many balls, best thing to do is , let partner do the disciplining, and you do the fun things ( to a certain extent ) never butt in when the kids and dad are talking, I dont know what ages they are ....stay out of saying anything derogatory about his ex, or his children, and dont favour your own to much!! Tho thats easier said than done, you dont really say why you worry about consequences? if it is the ex causing any trouble doesnt that make you look the better person. be self assured and enjoy your boy, the stepchildren, and so what if something happens, you can deal with it when or IF it does.and it probably wont happen. Just to come on the boards, and say what is worrying you, makes you a caring person.
best wishes
Sue

Just wanted to let you know that you were certainly not alone! I'm a step Mom, and while I am sure my depression and other issues do not directly stem from that, they sure do play a big hand in them!!

I thought being a Mom was the hardest job ever...nope, being a step Mom is even harder! I do not get along with my step childrens Mother, she hates me...that in itself is a long story, as there really is no reason. My MIL says she thinks that she is worried that the kids will love me more than her!

Anyway, just wanted you to know that you were not alone!