How do you cope with depression when pregnant?

Question

i was wondering if any one had any advice on coping with depression when pregnant. i feel down all the time, a lot has gone on in my past and I'm not coping with it any more. all i want to do is curl up in a ball and give up.

please, no horrible comments, i just want advice.

Answer 1

Depression during pregnancy should be treated using a combination of antidepressant medications and therapy. There are many risks attributed to depression during pregnancy which include preterm labor, detrimental effects on the baby, you and those around you. Not only will it be more difficult to cope with, depression during pregnancy robs you of the joy that you should be experiencing during your pregnancy. If you feel that you are experiencing depression during your pregnancy, it is important to get it under control now — 50% of pregnant women who have depression will have postpartum depression. By treating depression during pregnancy, you and your doctor will know that you will be ready to address postpartum depression, should depression continue after the baby's birth.

There are several simple steps a woman can take to reduce her chances of developing depression during pregnancy. For one it is vital that pregnant mothers get plenty of rest. Sometimes lack of sleep alone is enough to trigger short bouts of depression. It is also important that women have time to bond with their partner during pregnancy. If you haven't already, consider some private time to nurture your relationship before your new arrival makes his appearance.

Many women also find it helpful to manage their stress through exercise and by talking things out with their partner or with a therapist or doctor. If you find that you are having difficulty despite your best efforts, you should seek the advice of your doctor. Your doctor may refer you to a counselor or therapist who might recommend additional treatment to help you overcome depression during pregnancy.

good luck  

Answer 2

It called the baby blues! I had them for a while and also wanted to curl up in ball! I never told anyone and hubby never noticed because he was at work. After a few months it went away and now I am happy as ever! I think you should tell your doctor at the next visit because it could become serious. I hope you start to feel better!

Answer 3

There are antidepressants safe to take while pregnant. Talk to your doctor and see what he/she recommends.

Answer 4

No horrible comment here.  If it is as bad as you say, please talk to your doctor.  I know that hormones are out of whack and all, but there is no reason a person has to live with depression.  He/she can prescribe something for you for this.  Depression is not good for you or your unborn child.

I have not experienced this, but I have two friends that went through this.  

Good luck and congratulations on your pregnancy.

Answer 5

I totally understand I went through the same thing with my first preganancy you experience all sorts of emotions your happy, then scared the list goes on, what I did was try and think positive, got some exercise, met up with friends just generally keeping myself busy and trying to keep all the negative thoughts at bay and it worked, I am pregant again and although I did experience this time round I used the same method and it helped, if you are really depressed however I would advise you to go and see your doctor and see if they can give you anything for it or suggest a herbal alternative, hopet his helps and good luck, dont give up it willbe well worth it in the end

Answer 6

It is very difficult especially in the first trimester.  Normally I would say force yourself to do stuff, keep moving, exercise, etc...  but often during the first trimester, that is just not physically possible because you are so exhausted.  The exhaustion just makes it 10x worse because all you CAN do is lay there!

Just remember that a huge part of this is exhaustion.  Allow yourself time to rest.  Don't feel guilty for not getting stuff done around the house or being there for others.

Once you get into your second trimester, then start moving and keep going, get yourself back into life.  Don't let you life stop when you are pregnant.  You can still have goals even though you are pregnant.  It may feel like a lot of your life is on hold because you are prego, but really it is not.

Also, talk to your doc.

Answer 7

The past is just that, the past. You have a new life inside of you that is depending on you now! That baby is depending on you to go to work, to exercise, to laugh, to eat so that he or she can grow. Look to the future and all the excitement it holds and try not to think about the past.

Answer 8

Oh Honey, I am sorry you feel so crappy. It is good that you know what is wrong though and that you need help to cope - you are half way there! Your hormones are on a roller coaster right now: so, let it out! Don't beat yourself up pr think "I'm happy I am pregnant, what's wrong with me that now I am sad". Most women go through the blues at some point during their pregnancy - I cried for 4 days straight my first time (over everything! I burnt my toast*cry* I love this song *cry* I am a fat whale *cry*) You are not alone - not by a long shot! Mention it to your OB next visit - they'll tell you if it is a normal response or if it is too much etc...Tell your boyfriend/husband tell your sister/friend, tell your mom - TELL EVERYONE! You are not in this thing alone - you are growing a baby and you need to be protected - so let people know you need help. You will feel a lot lighter once you don't have to shoulder this all alone. Keep us posted, let us know if you need a boost and let us know how it is going! We have all been there, Mama!

Answer 9

when you are preg, it's not a good idea to take anti-depressants.  However, you can help yourself naturally.  There is a book called "Potatoes, Not Prozac" whcih will help you heal depression through food.  It's a fascinating read, go get the book today and do it, you'll thank me later.  :)

Answer 10

I feel the same way on and off...I've had a lot of stressful things go on lately and it's hard to deal with. especially being pregnant. and since stress and being depressed and such can affect the baby I feel guilty about it.