Do you suffer from anxiety and/or P.A's? How did/do you cope with the lack of sleep?

[shakespeare]

Hello,

I'm an anxiety sufferer and 26 weeks pregnant with my first baby and worried (there's a thing!) how I'm going to cope with the lack of sleep, specifically during the first few months after the baby is born. I've never really taken anything for the anxiety (altho I have been prescribed low dose diazepam in the past) as its not chronic, more I experience acute episodes every now and then, however one of the precursor's is lack of sleep, which I know is common. I do have a wonderfully supportive partner who knows the deal, so obviously he'll be helping but I'm just finding it hard to get excited as I have this hanging over my head . How have others coped or planning on coping? Any advice? I'm just wondering whether I should get some psychological help lined up now in case I need it.

Hi Shakespeare, I have OCD and also suffer occasionally from anxiety and depression. I haven't been too bad throughout my pregnancy (28 weeks now) but I too am worried about how the lack of sleep will affect me, as it always makes me prone to feeling very anxious. I know everyone says nap when the baby does, you'll get used to it etc, but I'm still apprehensive about it too.

Sorry, haven't got any advice but just wanted to offer support really! I am sure we will get through it. I will definitely take meds if I need to. x

Hi-there are lots of really good self help websites that you can use for this-I don't think your anxieties are particularly pathological!!
Self help CBT skills such as that found at livinglifetothefull.com or glasgowsteps.com may be helpful-and that is the tip of the iceberg, with regards to web based resources.

Hello, thanks for the support. MsG, are your concerned taking meds and breastfeeding? Logrrl, I'll definitely check out those websites, thanks