Depression

joyfulsimplicity · July 2015

Soo recently I've been facing huge bouts of depression. I spent most of yesterday in tears. Im at 6mos and there are just times when I feel overwhelming amounts of despair. I dont have many friends and a lot of them are in their own thing. Im having a lot of disconnect with the father of my child. Im really starting to panic about how I'm going to raise this child alone. I realize it's my new reality but it just becomes heartbreaking at times. Anyone else having anxiety over anything or facing depression. If so how do you cope?

arwestover3 · July 2015

I'm so sorry you're having such a rough time, mama. I've dealt with depression on and off throughout my life. Medication helps, but honestly, counseling was the way to go for me. Post-partum depression hit me hard with my first, and my counselor was amazing. Someone who listens and gives you legit coping mechanisms, doesn't let you beat yourself up and gives you tough love sometimes. Your PCP or OB should be able to give you a good recommendation. (The nurses often have good ideas too!) If you're religious, your congregation leader might have someone they send people to (that was how I found mine).

In terms of handling it myself, daily exercise, a good diet, and a goal to work towards worked wonders. As did "treating" myself occasionally. As an example, my goal was a half marathon, but obviously something else more doable during pregnancy would be good. Haha. And my treat to myself occasionally would be a pedicure or a treat from my favorite bakery. And it sounds really cheesy, but prayer and a gratitude journal also helped, just writing down one thing per day that was positive and I was grateful for. Some days I really didn't want to do it, but being able to look at that list on my difficult days have me a boost.

Sorry that was all super long! You've got this, mama. Hugs and prayers for you ❤️

MaddsMomma · July 2015

Depression is a medical condition. Please see a doctor in order to get help before baby comes. PPD is no joke and if you can take care of yourself now, that will help. Zoloft and Lexapro are penance and nursing friendly.

As far as raising baby alone, it is hard. Try to find a mom's group-the hospital at which you give birth may help. Having a safety net is helpful and no one said that safety net has to be a father or even people you k ow yet. Start finding reliable daycare, someone you trust with your life, if you choose to go back to work. Work saved my sanity, and our daycare was amazing. Having a piece of my own identity was necessary. Remember, being a mother is only one facet of who you are.

If you are raising this child truly by yourself and need assistance, look up WIC etc. Arm yourself with resources. If you choose to nurse, know that it'll be hard but truly wonderful by 6 weeks in (and free!!!). Pumps are now covered by insurance, thank you ACA.

You will be ok. You are acknowledging that there's a problem. That's the first and most difficult start.

leighann1 · July 2015

I have dealt with depression for the last several years and have been taking Zoloft throughout pregnancy. The best thing I ever did for myself was to drag my butt to the doctor and be honest about how I felt. It took me a long time to even recognize that what I was feeling was depression. It sounds like you already acknowledge that, which is huge.

I finally got the strength to make an appointment with my family doctor, and he was a life saver. As soon as I described how I felt, he gave me the best advice: Find someone to talk to, whether that be a good friend or a professional counselor. Surround yourself with positive people and things - watch comedies and avoid anything dark, dramatic or scary. Watch, read, and do things that make you laugh. Try this low dose of Zoloft, and whatever you do, don't Google it or ask people's opinions about how well it works. Just give it a try and see how you feel.

Seriously life changing. I felt overwhelmed by a lot of things in my life, and I can't put into words the clarity I felt after getting treatment. It was like a light was turned on and I was suddenly able to see things clearly. The absolute best thing you can do for yourself is talk to your doctor. Once you start treatment, the other issues (anxiety, worry, etc.) will begin to be remedied as well. Good luck!!

carlymarie021 · July 2015

The father of my child has been completely disconnected. I live with him and it's been very very difficult. I suffer from anxiety and depression and what your feeling is normal. I would speak to your OB and get on something. Some Anti depressants are safe during pregnancy. Please take care of yourself and speak to a professional. The medication may help U to take on the responsibility of being a single parent. Where as right now it's hard to picture. It will help u rationalize and stay calm. I sympathize with you. I have limited income and the father of my child has a gambling addiction and is not participating or helpful or supporting. I have a long road ahead of me. Your not alone. You can do this. Just speak to your doctor and they can give u a list of counselors in your area and possibly prescribe you something. Good luck love..

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