I did a sleep course in Australia which really helped me to learn how to support my son to self settle without crying it out. But..: to de stress I download games on my phone and play in free time. I’m not a gamer but I try different apple games, none that I would recommend 😂 but I like learning to play them. Get distracted for a bit then delete it and find another one
I hope it gets better for you, I personally work out and take all of my stress out on the gym. Gym is the best place mentally for me to feel better.
What helps u relax? A long bath a walk go for a coffee. Plan a meal with friends and family. Watch your fav TV show?
Now that vacation is over, try a screen time detox. No arguments, just no TV for a few days. I've had these days. I've let the kids prod me and pull my hair as I plead for them to be kind and let mommy rest. It's never successful. The only thing I've found that works is to read them one more book, even if you're falling asleep while reading it, and try again tomorrow. If he tantrums, lay on the floor next to him and confirm sometimes life is just hard, whether you're 3 or 30. Skip folding the laundry and lay down for those minutes instead. Close your eyes, and take that breath. Order in and take a day off from cooking & dishes. Try to putting your kid to bed a little bit earlier. Be intentional with your time-make a list, don't let it slip by 3 min at a time. 18mo is a clingy stage, but your time will open up a lot in the next 6 months as he gains independence. Try a few new things he can explore on his own. I would read a book while he plays in a sandbox or pokes holes in a pumpkin. gl🍀
Whenever I’ve put my little girl to bed, I then take 15 mins to do whatever I want before I get on with jobs so read, sleep, scroll, meditate. It’s only 15 minutes but it saves me. I also time her screen time just before daddy gets home so she’s happy watching that and again I can have some time to myself before it’s all go go go again. Take small chunks. Going for walks helps loads as well as she can run wild in a field whilst I breathe or look at nature etc. hope something here helps you x