Is it normal to regret having kids?
Yes, some parents regret having kids, even if they love their children. The feeling can be painful and taboo, but having it doesn’t make you a bad parent.
Parenthood can bring exhaustion, lost freedom, money stress, and a life that looks very different from what you pictured. Sometimes “I regret having kids” means you regret the circumstances or the relentless demands—not that you don’t care about your children. And for some people, the regret is more direct and lasting. People don’t always feel comfortable admitting either one.
You don’t have to force yourself to feel grateful or pretend everything is fine. If the feeling is weighing on you, talking honestly with someone you trust or a therapist can help you sort through it and find support. If you’re struggling to care for yourself or your kids, reach out for practical help—you deserve support, not judgment.