Any advice for depression during pregnancy?

Question

I’m 18 and 18 weeks pregnant with my first. Ive suffered with depression for about 5 years but it was pretty bad freshman year. I attempted suicide and luckily failed. I’ve been pretty good up until I got pregnant. I thought I was over the self harm and whatnot but now I can’t stop thinking about it. I’m not at risk I know myself but I feel lost knowing if I did something it would be hurting my baby too. I think not having my own body to control is what is causing me to think about it. I have a whole human being to care for and I can barely care for myself. My doctor recommended I go back on Zoloft but I don’t want to since it took so long to get off of it last time. Anyone know what might make me feel better?

Answer

I highly recommend getting back on the Zoloft, as your doctor recommended.
I was on it prior to getting pregnant and weened off of it by 7 weeks, but I keep a full prescription ready to go in case my depression becomes unmanageable again. Zoloft is one of the most well-researched medications you can be on while pregnant and is considered one of the safest. 
Your mental health is JUST as important as the health of your baby. It’s important to manage your depression or else leaving it unchecked will be worse for your pregnancy and baby’s health.

Answer

I agree with the post above. In addition, I recommend seeing a licensed mental health professional. Medication alone is not always 100% effective in treating depression. Therapists can help you find your triggers, process past trauma, and improve your self-worth. Psychology Today is a great place to find a therapist in your area if you don’t already have one. Many of us are offering virtual sessions these days as well. Take care of you.

Answer

Hey! I am prone to depression... and have struggled with it on and off throughout my life. I've noticed I fall into depression around the 5 month mark with my pregnancies (for both my kids). Im looking to ttc soon and hate that part so much, so not looking forward to it if I do end up pregnant!! I don't use medication (but am not saying this is right or wrong). 
The things that help me most is being around friends and family and having a good laugh. Make sure your in a positive environment. Talk to a health specialist, like the others have mentioned. Sometimes just letting all my thoughts out makes me feel better instantly.

Answer

Follow up with your doctor if you feel that going back on Zoloft will be the most beneficial especially for you to feel better and be the best mama to your unborn child then I would recommend going back on. I know exactly how you feel about how hard and long it takes to get off anti depressant medications. I’m sorry that your problems are again creeping up on you. It’s not a good feeling and your not alone. I went off my anti depressant for only 2 months and I couldn’t function I started to get the most depressed I have ever been so I had no choice 4 weeks ago I had to start Zoloft because the benefits outweighed the risks and the way I wasn’t functioning. I hope you get some relief soon and good support and that you will be able to feel better soon. I am 15 weeks 2 days and I never thought I would have needed to be on anti depressants while pregnant . I tried without them but it wasn’t a good site. All the best

Any advice for depression during pregnancy?

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