stopping bfing and depression

[MissChief]

sorry - already posted in feeling depressed but wanted to post here too and I really need some advice! tahnks.
having recently stopped bfing my toddler in order mainly to be able to take st johns wort or similar, I've actually been feeling a lot worse. I stopped about 2 1/2 weeks ago (at which point I started the SJW which I know takes a few weeks to kick in) and aside from the huge guilt and missing the closeness of the feed, I feel 10x worse! Incredibly tired, incredibly low. I'm wondering whether to start bfing again - LO wants to still anyway. I was only feeding him 1x a day anyway. I just don't want to go thro all this again though but can't carry on as I am. Should I persist and wait for the SJW to have effect in a couple of weeks? Anyone experienced this?

If you bf your baby till a toddler, you've given him/her a great start in life and have nothing to feel guilty about.

You are still allowed to cuddle when you've stopped bf, you know!

What does your gp say about the SJW? Maybe it doesn't suit you and you need something different. Maybe you could be referred for counselling - I believe you can get it free on the nhs these days.

You sound unwell - I think you need a professional medical opinion.

thanks for replying. I've already seen my GP, not much help, long waiting list for counselling. Yes, you're right, I know I can still cuddle LO, not the same though, esp afer such a long time and it's had a huge effect, I believe on my hormonal balance. Anway, I'm going to get some CBT
privately.

Well if it's not been too long since you gave up, you could possibly re-lactate. However, it depends on how old your toddler is, and how long ago you last bf.