Depression Resurfacing During Pregnancy?

Question

So I have had depression and anxiety since I was about 13, have been on and off a lot of different meds over the years. Had a really bad break about 4 years ago, went back on meds for almost 2 years. Was really feeling like the medicine was hurting instead of helping (which usually happens for me after a while on the same medication). I weaned myself off and have been very mentally healthy since then. My husband and I got married in the fall and I got my IUD taken out in November. We started trying to get pregnant with #2 right after that and got our first positive on April 6th. I have been very excited but recently I have just felt completely defeated. I'm always tired no matter how much I sleep, I either eat the whole house or literally nothing at all (no nausea), I'm feeling a very strong urge to just be alone and like this pregnancy is just not the right thing. All out of no where. I have no idea if pregnancy is causing my sudden emotional slip or what. I really don't want to take medication during pregnancy and I'm just on the fence about what to do. Is it just part of pregnancy emotions or something bigger? Anyone else's depression issues flare back up during pregnancy? Even after a long time of being stable and healthy?

Answer

Hi Julie!

I've been in health and nutrition coaching for a few years now. And one of the most important things I've learned throughout the years is that hormones have a huge impact on mental wellbeing. Having previously suffered from depression and anxiety myself, I've also had these feelings come back during this pregnancy. Luckily I've been able to control it by labeling my bad thoughts as "hormones" and "temporary". 
Ask yourself if these feelings you are having are realistic? Is there anything going on in your life otherwise that could be to blame for triggering these feelings again? If not, I can bet you that it's 100% your hormones messing with your brain. In cases like that you come a long way just by identifying that it's your hormones messing about. Whenever your anxiety comes around or any feeling of depression starts taking control, you identify it as hormones and remind yourself that this is just temporary.

You got this. And if you feel like you can't help yourself then talk to someone professional to see if they can help.

Depression Resurfacing During Pregnancy?

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