Postnatal anxiety- waking up with the feeling of dread.

[Mrsmitchell1984]

Dear all,

I need some support and advice.

I have a 5 week old son and I have been anxious ever since he was born. He is a good boy- he doesn't cry much, but I am finding it overwhelming.

After a week or so, I have been waking in the morning, with feelings of dread. I have my stomach churning and try to go back to sleep but it is unbearable. My thoughts are usually- not another day or looking after my son (I am finding it tough- adjusting to my new role).

I just wondered if anyone else had this and how they coped.

Does this ever go away or get better?

Any help please.

Sally

[nicola1980]

Hi I had the exact same after my son was born 14 years ago, infact I had my first ever panic attack in the hospital a few days after I had had him, I was only 20 at the time and my son was in special care as he was very poorly I absolutely petrified, I finally sought help from my Gp and health visitor when he was about 3 weeks old and I was put on citalopram and it really helped, the anxiety and dread finally lifted and I was able to enjoy my son. Please speak to your Gp, you don't have to suffer alone XX

[Mrsmitchell1984]

What a wonderful reply. Thank you. Did you come off of the meds in the end? Were you ok?

Best wishes,

Sally

[Mrsmitchell1984]

Anyone else?

[nicola1980]

Hi yes I did eventually come off the meds, I think it was prob a year later? the meds really helped me and I was able to enjoy my son without that dreaded fear and anxiety. I hope your feeling a bit better xx

[Mrsmitchell1984]

Thanks Nicola. I have been put on fluoxetine and only 2weeks in, I am feeling awful x

[nicola1980]

That'll be the side effects hun, i increased my venlafaxine nearly 3 weeks ago and I've been feeling awful too, try and bare with it, it should start to settle soon, i know how hard it is especially when you've got a newborn. Have you spoke to your Gp? They might beable to prescribe you a small dose of Diazepam to help you thro? XX

[Mrsmitchell1984]

Thanks - I will try my best- but rapidly losing the will to live!!x

[nicola1980]

I totally hear you!! I'm feeling the same after increasing my dose, had a good couple of days then wham the anxiety is back :( the meds just have to level out in our bodies, hang on in there XX

[Mrsmitchell1984]

Thanks Nicola. How come you have been put on different tablets this time.

Keep strong too.

Best wishes,

Sally