Postnatal Anxiety

[Sunflower1989]

Since becoming a new mum I have had pretty bad postnatal anxiety. I constantly worry about big and small things, mostly concerning the safety and well-being of my DD. Some of the thoughts are irrational and I recognise this but it doesn't stop the feelings of anxiety and worry.
Eg. I am scared she will be abducted, what if I die? What if we have a car crash? If we do, where is best to have her in the car? What if I drop her down the stairs? What if she chokes while I wean her? Etc etc etc.
I have seen a mental health worker from the NHS who is very nice but hasn't given me much to work with. I should also say, I function through the day and we have a very active life, this doesn't stop me loving every tiny minute with her. I just have nights where I feel like I can't breathe thinking it all over.
Am I alone in this? Does anyone have similar thoughts and feelings? Any advice on coping with it?

I think everyone has feelings like this, it’s natural when you are responsible for somebody’s life. However these thoughts can get out of hand...

Things that can help are sleep, good diet, regular exercise, evening primrose oil, time off.... cbt and anti depressants if you need them

If you are a worrier especially at night a book called the chimp paradox is amazing.

It is possible to shake this stuff off ( but it is also possible to get consumed by it if you don’t take control)

@UserN0me thank you for the reply. I agree this could spiral. Thanks for the reading advice, will definitely look into it xx

You're definitely not alone in this. Have you told your GP how you're feeling?

As for coping, I'd try giving the apni a call tomorrow.

Have you told your HV how you're feeling too? She may be able to refer you to a local group for Mums who are struggling

I feel for you, it's a horrible thing to experience.

I tried medication and CBT but it was hypnotherapy that worked in the end for me.

@JiltedJohnsJulie thank you, I have spoken to my HV and doctor who referred me to the mental health team here. I haven't really been given many tools from them other than being offered meds. I can't really see that being a long term solution so would rather not go down that route.

@fillmyglassplease hypnotherapy sounds interesting. Perhaps something I can look into. Thank you 😊

I understand how you feel about the meds not they don't have to be long term and they're not like the old fashioned tranquillisers that were given to women. It might be worth going back to the GP and discussing CBT though.