Does this sound like anxiety/depression or just generally being run down?

[sickmumma]

I had my 4th child nearly 3 months ago now. It wasn't a planned pregnancy and it took a while to get my head round it all. When she arrived I was over the moon however as times gone by I am finding it harder to cope day to day.

I had some anxiety whilst pregnant due to being so sick - I didn't travel far from home and always by car as I was worried about being ill. This stopped just after she was born however over the last 2/3 weeks I am finding it's creeping back in.

I took DD to her first baby group and upon arrival had what i would say was a anxiety attack - hot, flustered - I had to go to the bathroom and kind of calm myself down it was horrible. I am finding I am worrying more and more about going out and about despite wanting to make new friends for my daughter.

I also am struggling with my other children, they are being quite testing and I know in my rational mind it's the change a new baby brings and also probably due to sats and end of term etc they are tired but I find myself short tempered and moody. I don't want to be like this but I guess I am feeling pretty run down as life is full on.

I don't really know what to do, I am thinking to speak to my GP however if it is post partum depression I'm unsure what they could do to help. Like I said I know the reasons I am struggling, I can rationalise it all in my head, I am still forcing myself to go out and about and carrying on as normal but to function as normal I am finding it incredibly draining and difficult. I also feel quite cut off from DH, I am going to bed most nights by 9 as I'm exhausted.

We're just giving this a bump for you, OP. We're so sorry for what you're going through and would always recommend seeking real life help and support from your GP and mental health services.

sickmumma It sounds like anxiety to me. I as people get older anxieties tend to get worse. At least this is what I notice from myself and friends. But there are ways to cope. For example I carry with my water and gum as that helps me if I feel panic. Or I am prepared. For example I’m pregnant now so when I travel I worry I might not feel well, so I prepare w snacks, anti nausea bands etc. This helps me get through it.

Early days are are with newborns and especially if you have 4! Just remember it will get easier. Talk with your husband and let him know how you are feeling. Speak to your GP and a friend if you can. It helps to get out and interact with people.

I had something very similar, anxiety & depression and generally ‘all too much’ after my second. It’s lingered with me abc tbh, got worse, talk to your gp....