The Subreddit for “Regretful Parents” Just Might Be the Darkest Place Online

A Reddit community named r/RegretfulParents has emerged, consisting of parents who deeply regret bringing children into their lives. This anonymous forum allows remorseful mothers and fathers to express their darkest frustrations, venting about their children, partners, and families. The subreddit emphasizes a "safe place" for those who believe they shouldn't have become parents, ensuring "no judgment or bullying allowed."

One user lamented his regret over becoming a father, expressing a desire for a time machine to choose never to have children. This father admitted he was never "brave enough to consider what I actually wanted," and now finds himself stuck in a family he wishes he could escape. He admits that breaking up the family for his own sanity and happiness would make him the "bad guy" he fears being, with his only other option being a time machine to redo his life.

A recent post received over 1,300 upvotes, expressing that "sometimes the mere fact that you had a child completely damaged and changed your life for the worst." The Redditor asserts that "the truth is that sometimes a child isn't a blessing and they absolutely will destroy your life and world," stating that society needs to admit this fact to prepare people for parenthood.

While it's tempting to blame these parents for their poor judgment or succumbing to pressure to have children, the subreddit's popularity reveals a broader issue. Common concerns among regretful parents revolve around finances, economic desperation, and challenging life circumstances. A single mother in the forum shares her struggle as a sole provider with no support, living in a country without benefits, and ultimately feeling her life has gone downhill since becoming a mother.

Even in wealthier nations like the United States, raising a child is a significant financial burden. The cost of raising a child in the US can reach $300,000 over 18 years, exacerbated by the deteriorating public programs. The privatized child care system leaves over half of American kids without adequate daycare access, while only 31 percent of US companies offer paid family leave in 2025.

Coupled with stagnant wages, inflation, housing crises, and lacking affordable healthcare, it's no wonder some parents feel they'd be better off without another child.