I'm a Stay-at-Home Dad Who's Afraid of the Dark and Sneaking Up on Me

Hello everyone. I know it’s not exactly the typical confession you hear, but here goes: I’m 37 years old, a stay-at-home dad for my two wonderful kids, ages three and five, and let me tell you, there’s something about this role that brings out an unexpected fear in me. It started maybe six months ago when I first realized I had become the person who stays up late watching over them while they sleep. At first, it was just being aware of their breaths and making sure they were tucked in tightly under their blankets. But then, as the days went by, something shifted inside me. My imagination got the best of me, what if a burglar snuck in through an open window or a spooky creature from under the bed? I began to feel this overwhelming anxiety when it’s quiet and dark. The thing is, my wife works late nights, so there are times when I’m on my own until she gets home. So naturally, I started checking every nook and cranny of the house, checking behind doors, making sure there are no monsters in the hallways or closets. It’s a bit over the top, I know, but it just feels like something is watching me, waiting for an opportunity to strike. The real kicker happened last week when my three-year-old came into our room screaming that she could see a ghost under her bed. Of course, I checked and there was nothing there. But then I noticed how closely the kids were looking at my face when they woke up one night, there's a mix of concern and something akin to fear in their eyes. I’m asking you guys today because I need some advice: Is this just an irrational worry or is it normal for someone who’s responsible for keeping others safe? How can I reassure them that everything is okay without looking like a complete nutcase?