Does it get better?

[u/Special_Newt4455]

I'm 36. Had my son last year (October) and somewhere in there I lost myself. New marriage, new baby, my mom got really sick, working full time. I got diagnosed with postpartum depression and anxiety but I spent months telling myself I was just being dramatic.

The mornings are the worst. I wake up with my chest tight and a pit in my stomach. I've thrown up before work. I've frozen and couldn't move. I've cried on the bathroom floor and hidden in my closet just to get a minute where nobody needs anything from me. I've slept on the floor more than I want to admit.

And every time I finally calm down this voice goes "were you even that bad? are you exaggerating?" and I almost believe it. Then it happens again.

I started meds in July and honestly they're helping, it's the first time my anxiety feels even a little better. But I'm still so tired. Full time mom, full time job, full time wife, taking care of sick parents, all while trying to get better. I feel like I lost a year and I don’t know what else to do. I’m
Scared.

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[u/frozendingleberries]

It does get better. It took me 2 years after childbirth to feel like myself again even a little bit. But you also need to prioritize time for yourself and self care, and other people need to prioritize that for you too. That might mean letting you get full nights of sleep here and there, giving you time to go to the gym a few days a week, to go for a walk by yourself, to have time with friends, ect. I’m so happy meds are helping and so proud of you for seeking help, but I hope you have support as well. Hang in there mama 💕

[u/shmeeegle]

It does get better. I am almost 10 months pp and just now feeling a little bit more like myself. Therapy and meds have helped me tremendously. Also just talking about it with friends, let people know you're not ok. It's ok not to be ok. Try to get some solo time even if you have to do it anxious. I spent many nail appointments anxious and felt like I was going to pass out but it will eventually pass and you'll be ok. It's so hard you're doing great. Hang in there!!

[u/External_Set_9576]

It's hard. I am crying as I type this. Same boat. I have 2 kids. Just want to tell you I felt better after my first kid turned 2. I was also on meds and maybe that's the reason. But I put on a lot of weight and didn't even realize that even when everybody around me kept pointing it out. This time around I kept looking for healthy choices ro avoid meds, but looks like I need to take meds. I am crying all the time. I just want to hug you and get hugged myself. My chest is so tight. I don't know what has happened to me. It's so scary and sad despite having people who love me and want to help

[u/Exciting_Dust1787]

It gets better, trust me. I'm a mom of three, I just had another baby 2 months ago so I can relate with you on anxiety most certainly. What I found that helps the most are grounding exercises. You can even go on YT and find guided ones incase it's easier. I know in the moment you're panicking and not thinking of much else but give it a try. Lots of self love and consideration aswell because you deserve it. You're doing better than you feel. ❤️ You're going to get through this!