I struggled with depression several years ago when my best friend died unexpectedly from a pulmonary embolism. I have struggled to get pg and concieved my DS . We of course have struggled again while trying to get pg again. I was over the moon excited with my pg with my son and internally, I really am about this pg too. However, this time around I feel down a lot, I want to sleep a lot, and I can't seem to feel outwardly excited. I am wondering if it is just hormonal or if it is the extra complications I have had with this pg that is keeping me gaurded, or can you actually have pregnancy depression? I really am so excited to have this baby and do want it so badly but I cant seem to stop worrying, being fearful something is wrong and I can't seem to outwardly be excited. I will be talking to my OB about it at my next appt. but is anyone else experiencing this?
Praying this little one sticks!
Re: Depression?
Depression is a real thing, and it can be exacerbated by the hormones and stress and changes that occur with pregnancy.
I know that early in this pregnancy I was really depressed, but it has gotten a lot better. Now might be a good time to look into therapy, since medication isn't great. But depression isn't good for your baby either, so sometimes the benefits outweigh the risks. Your doctor can help you best, and good luck. I know it's a hard thing to deal with.
I was lurking on the Postpartum Depression board the other day and someone posted about pre-partum depression. Theres another (medical) term for it, but I forget. I totally think its possible. A new baby can change alot of things and bring on loads of stress. And I for one can totally relate. Talk with your doc and maybe post/lurk over on the Postpartum Depression board. Those ladies may have better resources.
Chin up hun, things will get easier ! hugs*
https://community.thebump.com/cs/ks/forums/thread/46813435.aspx
https://community.thebump.com/cs/ks/forums/thread/47169239.aspx
here are just 2 threads that discuss this
I struggled with severe depression for 3-4 years about 10 years ago. It now rears its ugly head rarely and I only struggle with Seasonal Affective Disorder every winter. When it was earlier in my pregnancy, I felt REALLY DOWN. I thought "Oh, no. . . it's back." But, around week 8 or so it just disappeared. I just felt this calmness and peace come over me and I've felt that way since.
If you need someone to talk to, PM me. I really like to talk to people who have gone through what I have.
The term "peri-natal mood disorders" is a common term used to describe mood disorders (anxiety, depression, ocd, etc) that surround pregnancy (either during or after). Women with a history of a mood disorder any time prior to becoming pregnant are at a higher risk for developing a mood disorder during or after pregnancy. Also, women who tend to respond strongly to hormones prior to pregnancy (i.e. PMS, mood swings before/during your period, rage, etc), have a higher risk of a perinatal mood disorder. Infact its very common. Make sure to talk with your OB. However, keep in mind that some OB's are more familiar with post-partum depression, and have little/no experience in talking with their patients about true peri-natal mood disorders. Just keep this in mind. They may recommend some counseling. In which case, make SURE you find a therapist that has expereience with perinatal mood disorders. Check out www.postpartum.net for more information.