Please help - anxiety and early pregnancy

[Mylittlepuds]

Hi.

I had crippling anxiety after the birth of my son 17 months ago. It's since improved marginally and recently I was having more good days than bad.

Ive found out I'm pregnant (unplanned) but we were thrilled as was such a surprise. I'm now about 6 weeks and my anxiety today, and a bit yesterday, has gone into overdrive. That constant on edge weird feeling.

Is there any way this is temporary while my hormones adjust? Or does is mean I'll suffer throughout pregnancy only to be plunged further into the hell hole after the baby is born?

I've not been on anti ds, but have been having counselling.

Hi I had very serious anxiety issues 5 months pg with ds. Ended up on ad's and olanzipine which wasn't ideal but did help massively and seemed to have no ill effects in the long run. Being so anxious (ended up in hosp for two weeks) was definitely worse for both of us.

Marlow - thanks for your reply. Was it your first pregnancy? Had you had anxiety issues prior? Were you okay after his birth?

Yes was my first pregnancy (and only so far). Had previously had minor bouts of depression but this was very different and was too anxious to function properly. Had a nervous breakdown. Wish i had got meds earlier but had worried about taking them. Been better than ever before since having him. Came off the Olanzipine quite quick with no probs. Still on ads 2.5 years on but it's working for me.
Sure you won't get so bad but look after yourself and don't be scared to ask for help x

Thanks Marlow. Did you ever look into hormone stuff? I'm certain that's my issue. I have really battled on without ADs - I was really, really loop de loop after DS - but now I'm thinking there's no way I can be like that when this little one arrives. Have you had any issues with the ADs? Honestly? Would you rather have not gone on them or are you happy you did?

I did have some side effects with ad's for first 2/3 weeks, mostly hot flushes, restless limbs and prolific sweating (tmi!) But can honestly say I don't regret it at all, it saved my sanity! I have stayed on them but on a reduced dosage. Much happier all round !