I have three children, ages 8, 6 and 19 months. My oldest son was born at one pound nine ounces. Ever since his birth, I have been a stay-at-home mom. I feel like crying half the time and screaming the other half, and in between I feel like running away. My husband helps me, but I feel taken advantage of even when he does help out. What should I do?

S.P.

No wonder you're having such a hard time, with three small children including one whom I assume was born prematurely and had many medical challenges. I would expect anyone in a similar situation to have frayed nerves and to at times feel like chucking it all. (Which would not in any way mean they were crazy or didn't love their children and husband.)

My immediate recommendation is for you to find a therapist who can provide a safe place for you to talk about what's going on with you and provide support and guidance during this difficult time. It may seem like an extra expense when money's probably tight, but I'd consider it an investment in yourself and, indirectly, your children and your marriage, as all will most likely benefit if you feel better. As the saying goes, "If Mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy."

A therapist should be able to help you (and if need be, your husband) problem-solve and explore possible options to your dilemma. For instance, can you call on help from friends and family (and if necessary, babysitters) to take care of the children for awhile so you can take a much-needed break? Perhaps go away for a weekend or, even better, a week, by yourself or with some girlfriends? (Of course you and your husband could also go away together somewhere ... even a night in a local hotel with a sitter looking after the kids might start to replenish you.)

You might also consider sharing your feelings with and asking for suggestions from the community of mothers at iVillage.com. There are message boards for stay-at-home moms at both Parentsoup.com and Parentsplace.com. It may help to hear from other moms who are also struggling -- both to know you're not alone or unusual in what you're feeling, and to get support and advice from women who've been there. If the message boards help you make some new friends either online or close to home, all the better.