Approval panel

[beansonbread]

My DH and I have our approval panel this week and I'm absolutely terrified that something is going to go wrong.
Our social worker has reassured us 1000x that everything will be fine but I can't shake this feeling. My DH keeps telling me not to worry but I'm sure it boils down to trying to protect myself from any disappointment if there is a 'no' on the day.
For the past four years I've found myself getting excited for TTC and IVF and both routes led to disappointment and heartbreak. I really don't want another no.
Our social worker has told us a couple things that will come up at panel (my precious MH is the main one) but that everything can be explained and discussed so won't cause a problem.
Our friends and family ( the few that we've told) are so excited and I'm dreading having to tell them if panel doesn't go as we hope.

How do I stop myself completely overthinking this to let myself relax and enjoy the ride? Any tips or advice?

It is not surprising you feel nervous, but I am sure you will be fine.

We didn't get a definitive answer on the day, which was a bit of a shock, but got approved by the ADM.

Just plan the bits you can (like where to park etc) and go with the flow :)

Thank you Topcat. I wasn't aware you might not get a definitive answer after panel, obviously I know you need to wait for the ADM's decision but I thought you got the panel's straight away.

Good idea about thinking of the bits I can control. Thinking of W hat to wear could be a good distraction.

It's just such a bizarre feeling knowing everything is out of your control - there are so many things to wonder about when it comes to adoption. My brain never seems to switch off when it comes to thinking about all things adoption related.

There's a Facebook group called prospective adopters U.K. support group. If you're not a member then you should join, they are very supportive and there's always people around who are at the same stage as you or one step further along the process to help and support you

Hi Chocolate - thanks for replying. I'm already a member of the Facebook group - it's a fab group. I don't like posting on Facebook groups where I don't have a level of anonymity but reading the posts there is so helpful. Everyone seems so supportive.