Wondering If I Am Alone?

No, A., you're not alone.
I have suffered from anxiety attacks on and off for many years. Sometimes they are triggered by very real crises in my life and sometimes by nothing at all. I know how very debilitating and SCARY they are (mine would last for 2 weeks). I couldn�t focus on anything or sleep because my brain would be racing with all these fears�the only thing that would calm me down (for a short time) was being in a safe place near someone I knew and trusted.

I do believe they are caused by severe hormone imbalances because my periods always stop after I had one. After one episode, my wonderful and thorough doctor in CA, found a tumor in my pituitary that was causing some lactating hormones to go through the roof. I eventually took a combination of meds for the pituitary and zoloft, which is very good for treating anxiety and panic disorders. I took less than the lowest dosage they even make because that was all I needed.

I also know from my own experience, that you cannot "work through it and try to control it" as these doctors/hospital staff want to tell you. The truth is, most doctors, except a specialist, don't understand them. Please find a specialist, a psychiatrist, therapist or endocrinologist, who understands and can treat you effectively (they understand psychiatric meds the best). The doctors at the hospital are afraid to give you anything because you are pregnant, but a specialist would have a better understanding of side effects and what you can tolerate. I wish I could recommend someone to you, but I haven't found anyone since I moved here myself.

I read the letter from Anne in Madison, and I agree with her wholeheartedly. I would think the panic attacks would be harder on you and the baby than most medication. She is living proof that it can be done.

A.,
You are not alone. Please get the support you need from seeing a good doctor (family doc or psychitrist) to manage medications (some are approved in pregnancy, especially since you are done with the first trimester). Also, you need to work with a professional counselor. Hopefully you have family support to help care for the other kids/household while you go to appointments and get back on track. Don't wait! Friends and family can be good support, but you need professional help too. I know it's hard, but you'll make it through!

Hi...

First off, I would like to commend you on being open about this. Having said that, I can tell you that panic attacks are somewhat common. However, when they become so severe that the attacks, or the worry about having an attack, begin to interview with your daily routine, as it sounds like yours have, it is called an anxiety disorder. While I have never personally experienced it, I know people who have or have had anxiety disorder. While your doctor may be telling you to "work through it", he or she may not realize the extent that it is disabling you to perform your duties as wife and mother, and the extra stress certainly is not good for you or your unborn child either. Please insist that a doctor refer you to a counselor or someone you can work through this with. It does NOT mean you are crazy, and you certainly are not the first (or last) to experience this. I wish you the best.

Hi Amy. My name is Jenni- I live in River Falls with my 2 girls. I was a therapist before I had my daughter, and I think I might be able to help you. First of all, let me tell you that anxiety attacks are alot more common than most people think. You're not crazy, or alone. You also should know that this is completely treatable and fixable, even without medication. I have a few questions and recommendations for you.
1. When did you first notice feeling panicy, and what was going on in your life at the time?
2. Why is this pregnancy unfamiliar if you have 3 other children? Were they adopted? Was this pregnancy planned or are you having a rough pregnancy?
3. Do you have health insurance? I think you should see a therapist, and many health insurances will cover therapy.
4. There is a book you can get at the library titled "Hope and Help for Your Nerves" by Claire Weekes. It walks you through how to get over panic attacks.
5. Who told you you could not take medication for anxiety while you are pregnant? Most OB/GYN's will ok SSRI medications- which are like Prozac, Paxil, Celexa, etc. You can choose to not take medications, of course, but they have not been found to cause any problems with babies.

I have to run now, but please write back if you need more guidance.
Good Luck!
Jenni

OH A.! First, YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!!!! Not in the least!!! 2nd, I'm so sorry you're going through this. It is awful.
I've suffered from Anxiety and Panic Attacks for years. I saught help with a psychologist to help me cope. It helped me a lot. Mostly to understand Anxiety as a whole. A lot of mine stemmed from life changes, getting married, college, babies, financial stress, etc... Everything you're explaining is what I've experienced. One thing I do is when I'm feeling anxious I try to do something different, go for a walk (if you can get away). I even will turn on the Disney channel because it's happy. I've also told myself, during a panic attack, that this is my minds way of trying to make me think I'm crazy. Be sure you talk to your husband and tell him when you're feeling this way. Just having someone know you're struggling can help too. Feel free to contact me if you want to talk. Hang in there, my mommy friend. You'll get through this. We're here for you.
S.

Hi A. C. My name is A. and I live in Madison, WI. I'm not a doctor, but the symptoms you are describing are very familiar to me. I have been on medication for Anxiety/Panic attacks for almost 20 years. Going on the medication was the best thing I ever did. Before, I was afraid to leave the house, be alone, etc., but I lead a normal life. Sometimes anxiety can be caused by stressors in your life--for example your babies starting school, or the hormonal changes you are experiencing due to your pregnancy. Sometimes, like in my case, my body's chemistry is a little out of whack and I get panic attacks for no apparent reason. The medication I take helps to even out my body chemistry.
You need to know that what's happening inside is merely your body's response to an adrenaline surge. If you were in an emergency situation, your body would produce adrenaline to help you get through the situation. However, when your body produces adrenaline in a non-emergency situation, you feel the tightness in your chest, the racing heart, the feelings that you are going to die or that something bad will happen, etc.
Although these are certainly uncomfortable feelings, they will pass. Trust me, I have been there!!! You could try doing some deep breathing, and acknowledge your feelings without letting them control you. Keep doing your daily routine. If you get panicky while out of the house, find a park bench or sit in your car until the panic attack is over. Most of the time they don't last very long, what does stick around is the fear of it happening again. DO NOT stay in your house out of fear. If you do, your panic is controlling you, and not the other way around.
The good news is that there are psychiatrists out there who specialize in anxiety/panic disorders. I'm confident that if you were to see one, he/she would be able to help you.
I have a 20 mo. old son, and stayed on my medication throughout my pregnancy with no ill effects. My son is healthy and thriving, so it is possible.
Also, you may google "panic attacks" or "anxiety attacks," there is tons of information out there for you. Hang in there!

Hello- I do not think you are a alone. You seem a little overwhelmed. Do you get time to yourself ever? YOu need to take that time for you. M<aybe some relaxation exercises. Yoga is good and good for baby. Maybe find a Pyschologist in your area. You sound way to sad. If you need to vent I will read! Jill

I also suffer anxiety/panic attacks that started during pregnancy. You are not alone. one in four women suffer from anxity/panic attacks. The one thing that has helped me the most is an omega 3 supplement, (fish oil and or evening primerose oil. It needs to be a high quality one!! I take nordic naturals Omega Women. It has both the fish oils and evening primroes oil. It is a bit expensive but worth it! It is totally safe during pregnancy and some dr.s even recommend it as it is good for the babies brain developement! The other thing I did was to go see a homeopath. She did some tests and gave me some other vitamins my body needed to help balance my horemones and that has really helped as well. THe doctors I went to see just wanted to put me on medication. I wanted to know why I was having these attacks!
Good luck!

Dear A. C, You are not alone, I've been there, except the hospital part. Anxiety attacks, YES. FOUR small dependent children, YES. Now my youngest is 16 and the oldest is almost 24, and I have a 2 1/2 yr old grand daughter. I do remember the ugly days and so can each of my daughters (no boys). I found peace of mind and spirit in meditating on Scripture and listening to VCY America radio 90.5 Fm or on the internet at vcyamerica.org. There is a daily program on at noon called Return to the Word, a call-in talk time with Biblical pastors showing listeners how to go to Scripture for problem resolutions. They also have a web site at returntotheword.org. I suffer with recurrent depression. My mind gets locked into very wrong thinking patterns and my lifes' perspective goes down the toilet fast. I really have to work hard at not going there and by Scriptural meditation and praise and thanksgiving WHILE I do, what, I as a mom has to do right now, that is how I work PAST those terrorizing thoughts. I have spent days in bed, paralyzed emotionally and isolated while my small daughters had to fend for themselves. This was wrong of me as their mother. Many times I have to "mother" myself as in telling myself, outloud, what it is that I should be doing that needs to be done now, not procrastinating. I know for me that bitterness(I regularly confess this sin when I see that I am behaving out of order) inside over my past still plagues me and by God's grace I will go forward. Praise God for your growing baby, Praise God for your active little ones. Praise God for a loving husband and give him unconditional respect, inspite of your overwhelmed state, remember it is just as hard on him only he does't show it. Ask God to guide you into creating joy in them, thereby returning joy to you. Regular nap times are a must for them and for YOU! Try bulk cooking so the main parts of meals are prepared ahead of time so dinner is on the table in 30 min. Get the 4&5 yr olds cleaning & picking-up as a game with Mom as the cheerleader. They have a need to be needed and KNOWING how important their help is to you. Shutting off the TV & keeping it shut off will give the children time and opportunities for active play, I told my daughter to have her daughter go up & down the stairs as a game fetching toys to put away just to tire her out. Let kids get dirty outside (plan their dirty outside clothes) and enjoy their exploring WITH them, dirt washes away, memories stay. Walking outside with singing is really good, but they must OBEY MOM or we go home. I am just throwing some ideas that worked for me and I use with my grand daughter. I have 2 kid-friendly dogs and a piano which provide activities for small ones as well as interactive reading of books. If you have a church, check out their resources, or I am inviting you to come to my church fellowship which has several younger moms with small children, Eau Claire Gospel Center on Cameron Street 10:30 am Sundays.
A., I am praying for you and your family. You can overcome these mind torments with God's grace, His Word really IS more powerful than any painful confusing state the mind finds itself. You won't be 100% successful at it BUT HE is faithful to forgive and restore. Only Jesus Christ was perfect in pleasing God and by His shed blood on the cross we are made clean from our sins (past, present and future) each time we confess and repent of sin. I John 1:9. Psalms is a good place for comfort and Proverbs teaches how to live life well. II Timothy 1:7 says "For God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."
If you want to talk at any hour(I am a light sleeper and my daughters have called me at all hours) I can give you my number, just e-mail me back for my phone number if you found any of what I said helpful.
Sincerely,
M. K.

If they are telling you there is nothing that they can do for you they are wrong. My sister-in-law was on a strong anti-anxity medication before pregnancy and feared going off because of the stress and shock that it would do to her system. Talk to your OBGYN. They can put you on something that will not hurt the baby. If they are not comfortable then call the hospital and ask to speak to someone in the "Woman Kind" office. The gals there are wonderful! I was going through some awful stress during and after the birth of my son 2 years ago and they were so great. It's covered under insurance and if you are not comfortable with leaving your home or do not have time they will just sit and talk with you on the phone. Jennifer was the gal that helped me and she was wonderful. She is out of the Fairview Ridges Hospital and would highly recommend talking to her about what she feels can be done. I think the first bigg step was already taken by you. Sending a message to us mothers who know what it is like to be stressed and trying to find yourself within the mess of our hectic lives and know and understand from others where your support is can be so wonderful. Take a deep breath and know that you are NOT ALONE. Feel free to email me any time. I live in New Market and am a full time working mother of 2 wonderful yet extreemly clingy boys! They are the breath of life within me!! I miss them terribly throughout the day however know that I am a much better mother being able to seperate myself from work and mother. Your Friend,
L. E.

I understand how you feel. Sometimes with no warning I worry my husband will die on his way home from work, or that my baby will fall over a railing. The feelings are so real as if it is happening, my heart hurts and it is so difficult to make the thoughts go away. What I do is remind myself Nadira ( my infant) is right here, safe in my arms. I tell myself my husband is so smart and safe he will be ok. It is hard and you have to do it daily and the feelings will still be there but they wont come as often. Try not to stay in bed, and if you cant seem to get out, ask your children to watch a movie with you in bed, or play picnic or something like that because we do not want our children to grow up afraid.

Amy - I had this disorder come on suddenly a few years back and actually after seeing a mental health specialist I was able to get off meds after a year. Then after having my first child, due to hormone imbalances and post-partum depression, I went back on. I am happy to say I have managed to go off now after my second child and manage things on my own for a few months with no issues. I strongly suggest you see a doctor who specialized in this. I tried an OB and a family practice doctor but they never helped me. I suggested you contact Health Partners and I know they have a clinic on University Avenue between St. Paul and Minneapolis. I used to see Katina who is a nurse and also works in mental health issues. Its scary especially when you have kids to take care. I suggest you just try to keep as busy as you can because that helps your mind not to "wander". I learned part of my problem is that I was just totally overwhelmed. See if you have some relatives or friends who can help you with a few chores or take the kids so you can have a break if possible to get things done and have a little time to yourself. One way to try to work through it is to go to the libarary or a book store in the self-help section. They have books and workbooks there that are a bit spendy at the book store but teach you how to change your frame mind. You have to take and turn the negative thoughts into positive ones. The negative thoughts are what is causing you to have anxiety. Good luck!

There is a good book out on this subject "Hope and Healing for your Nerves" by Claire Weeks (I think I am getting the title right but if not, it is close) I used to have some mild issues with panic years ago when I was travelling a lot for work. This really helped me control it and realize what was going on. Best Wishes.

My goodness no. You are not alone. The good news is there are a variety of succesful treatments for anxiety that do not require medication. The #1 way to relieve anxiety is to practice deep breathing.

Other techniques include: Positive self talk, desensitization, relaxation techniques, EMDR, tapping, and self empowerment.

A few good books include: Help and hope for your nerves and Feeling Good (I think that is Burns).

Anyway, does your husband's employer have an employee assistance program (confidential counseling at no cost)? If so, I'd recommend contacting them. If not, see a counselor through your health insurance.

A.,

No, you are not alone! I suffered from severe anxiety after my first baby was born. It was so bad that we called 911 one night because I was sure I was having a heart attack. It took me over a year to figure out what was going on. My entire neck and shoulders were full of very painful trigger points from all the tensing I was doing. I was so scared.

For me, my anxiety was initially post-partum related, though not too many docs are trained to spot it like they are PPD. It then became a matter of not knowing what was wrong with me and becoming anxious over that! Once I found out what was going on, I was able to get myself under control, though I still have some bouts of it.

When I discussed with my family doc, she said there are anit-anxiety/depression meds that can be used during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. I wouldn't just assume there are no meds out there for you. Talk to your doc! If they're not helpful, find another one. If you need a name of a doc, let me know and I'll happily refer you to mine. There's no reason for you to suffer through this.

Personally I would talk to your OB or a family practice doctor. There are prescriptions that work wonders for anxiety that are completely safe while pregnant and breastfeeding. Please hand in there! I know it's hard! I've also been to the hospital for an anxiety attack, I was afraid to go to sleep because I thought I wouldn't wake up. There is a product called Rescue Remedy, it's available at The Vitamin Shoppe, I just started using it but know many people who swear by the stuff, it's homeopathic, but safe during pregnancy and BFing and has been working well for me. Good luck!

Jenn

I would ask my doctor for prozac. I assume you are pregnant, so find out if that is safe to take while pregnant. Your severe stress is causing the heart and arm pain. My closest friend thought she was dying (heart problems/heart attacks) because she had what she explained as "feels like someone is stabbing my heart over and over" and she had pain travel down her left arm, and would lose strength. She went to her doctor and after a plethera of tests, he told her to take a vacation and gave her low dose prozac. She is good as new now.

Do you have friends? I know it seems silly, but when I was a stay at home mom, I didn't. I had other mothers who's children my daughter played with. No real friends. If you have friends, take a few hours off, find a sitter, go have fun, or just find a sitter and go take some time for you. Get a massage, get your hair done, a facial...something, you will be amazed how refreshed 3 hours alone will let you feel.

One of the hardest things you are going to have to do is see your baby get on the bus the first day, it is as traumatic for us as it is for them, but make it exciting!! Take pictures, play games on the way to the bus stop (we played tag) then give her a big hug and kiss and tell her you will be right there when she gets off the bus. It will help your anxiety with the situation as well as your child's.

�
�
I am so sorry to hear all that you have been going through.� You need to know, you are NOT crazy.� This will end.� You can get through this.� I and many other people I know have been through this exact same problem.� It takes a long time, but you can overcome it.� The best resource I know of is a woman named Claire Weekes who wrote two wonderful books with step by step instructions on how to deal with panic attacks.� She writes a lot about agoraphobia (fear of leaving the house) and the books are a bit dated, but the same rules still apply.� They were a life saver for me.� Definitely not a quick fix, and a lot of hard work, but in the end well worth the effort.� The books titles are Hope and Help for Your Nerves, and Peace From Nervous Suffering.
��� I wish you the best of luck on your road back to wellness, E.

A.-

With my first son I went in for the same thing. It was just a hormonal/pregnancy thing. After I got throught the 2nd trimester it stopped.
Best thing to do is close your eyes and concentrate on your up and coming baby!!
Oh and if you are a person of faith - PRAY!
God's Blessings in this time of trial.
J.

A., what does your husband do to help you with the children? Is he supportive of you? I can't completely imagine what you are going through, however I had the same feelings after my second child was born. He was a few days old, wrapped in a beli-ruben blanket for januntice. My then husband worked 3rd shift, so I was home alone with a new born, a 2 1/2 yr old and post partum depression. I had the same feelings of what if I don't wake in the morning, my heart was racing, I had piercing pains in my chest, struggled to breathe and had a numb arm too. I was so scared for the first few days, but depended on family and friends to talk with. It wasn't until I got divorced that I went on some meds (which I know you can't do right now) that I felt better.

It's hard to control what you fear! Focus on those things that comfort you, relax you and make you happy! Get out of the house if you can for yourself, take a quiet walk (which is good for you and your unborn) and just focus on the quietness while taking deep clensing breaths! You can do this A., be strong for yourself first!

I am a little behind here, but better late then never. :-) I just wanted to add a little of my experience with meds being pregnant and mental illness. I was hospitalized with my fist. I basically shut down, I was in there in this shell I couldn't leave. I was married to a man that was not what I thought he was, and found out all of this when I was 4 mos. pregnant. I almost lost my son many times before the 9 ,mos. was up. At 5 mos. my parents had to take me to the women's hospital where I lived, from there it was to behavior health. I was so angry I had to be there and mad at everyone who was involved getting me there. (today I refer the hospitalization as my 5 day vacation)I worked out a lot of things in those few days I was there. The doctor asked if I wanted to start on some meds to help get through it, I said no. I had came close to loosing my son and did not want to take the risk. So a lot of support a divorce, and lots and lots of praying I got through the hardest pats. After my son was born I still had issues of depression, and anxiety, but I still said no to meds. "I can do this all on my own.," I would say. Yeah right! so I struggled more off and on for a couple years. More on then off I might add. Then I met my current husband and he was wonderfully supportive with my issues. (thank goodness) We then decided to have a child of our own. Well here we go, I thought I hope this one is much better than the fist. Well I was with a great man I had new friends and lots of support with new surroundings. So I was facing the fear of the mental health monkey I carried on my back. It was going well, then 16 weeks I had to have an amnio and from this we found out our little girl had a genetic disorder. Alright then, now try not to get depressed or have a few anxiety attacks with that news. So again the doctor asked about the meds. Now I had traveled this road before and man was it hard one. What do I do? I can't feel this mental pain for 5 more mos. I and my husband decided to try the meds. I got lots of info on the issue and said fine lets do it! I was put on an anti-depressant 3 x's a day. Wow, it really helped and I am so thankful I went ahead and took them. So when my little girl was born she was just as fine as she could be! The genetic disorder was not as bad as it could have been and so far she is still doing great! As far as the meds I took for the depression/anxiety it did not seem to effect her at all. I say that this maybe the reason she is happy all the time. It's really hard to decide what to do about the meds. It's really a personal decision for the person dealing with the issue. But I an here to tell you we did great on the meds. Now a days I have to treat my depression and anxiety everyday for I guess the rest of my life. But thank the man upstairs for the wonderful meds they have these days to treat mental illness. I take 2 different pills for depression I was able to cut back on my anxiety meds, but I found out not that long ago I have adult ADD. Well that explains a lot!!!!! So I decided to try to treat that issue. Also its never bad to have counselor on hand to see. I have a great one. I guess I want to say it's not a bad thing to get help as well as learning to help yourself though counseling. I have learned that you are your own best friend or your worst enemy. Treat yourself good take care of yourself and never feel bad because you need a helping hand. I hope my story helped let you know that you are never alone. I also wish you the best and just keep a positive way of thinking. Treating mental illness is just like treating a physical problem it's just treating your state of mind and the brain instead of the lungs, heart or any other organ in the human body. Have a blessed day. M.

A.,

I know you've probably already gotten enough responses to make you feel better about your situation, but I'll add mine to the mix too. I am the mother of a 2 1/2 year old and 14 month old and had crazy anxiety start about 3 days after my second daughter. With my first daughter, I had nothing of the sort, not even "baby blues." The night it happened I fell asleep early and suddenly woke up about 1 AM and never went back to sleep for about 3 days...the nights were the scariest!! I felt claustrophic and had to go inside then outside and couldn't sit down. I felt like a complete whack job!! I called my OB after a couple of days and explained what was happening and he said it was normal and to give it a week or two and it should go away. I didn't feel normal AT ALL and I wasn't about to run around my house (inside and out) like a crazy person so I eventually convinced him to start me on a low dose of the anti-depressant Zoloft, which was said to be safe while nursing. I'm not sure if it was the Zoloft or just the time period of 2-3 weeks like the doctor said, but after about a month I was significantly better. I was on a minimal dose for about 9 months and came off with no problem. I was absolutely terrified to take the drugs and maybe I jumped the gun, but that's what worked for me.

On the non-drug side (ala Tom Cruise) I also started paying close attention to my eating habits...it made a huge difference in my state of mind if I wasn't eating enough or very well. I started eating more protein and whole grains (tuna, yogurt, cheese and crackers). I didn't have an appetite at all, but I worked in little bites here and there and it really helped. Also drinking a lot of water.

And then there was my WONDERFUL husband who would get up with my daughter every night so I could stay holed up in the bedroom to sleep. For some reason my sensitivity was with sound and touch...I'd wake up at the slightest sound at all. I guess in short, take advantage of anyone willing to lend a hand. You're in the midst of some huge changes and you should take all the help you can get.

It seems so crazy that a few hormones can get you feeling like a complete nut, but I really think that's what it is. I still get a littly uneasier in the evenings during the week before my period - no where near what I was like after my daughter was born. Those nights freak me out a little.

Also, if you do opt for drugs, don't think that you're going to be feeling back to normal overnight...they take a little while to settle in. It helped me to keep a journal. Mostly, my doctor wanted me to log my feelings and episodes, but I'd periodically look back on it when I started to wonder if I was ever going to get better and then I'd realize I was already making progress, but just not as quickly as my impatient self wanted.

Hang in there - you're absolutely not alone! Hugs - A.

Stay strong A. C. You are not alone. You have 3 wonderful children and a husband.
Remember life is an adventure...seize each moment and make it your own!

You need to believe in yourself. You may not think you can reach it... climb anyway. You may not think you will be heard...speak anyway. You may not think you can change things...try anyway. Believe in yourself.

Amy,
I had the same things happen. The only difference is that I am not pregnant. I have a 4 year old little girl. I was diagnosed with extreme anxiety and severe depression. I was able to be put on medication for it but the thing that I think helped me the most was going to see a counselor/therapist. Just to talk about everything that is going on helped. You may have things bottled up that you need to let you and it may not help to let them out to your family.
Keep your spirits high and focus on those little angels. You have to keep going for them. You have to get out of bed for them. They will keep you going just as my little one did for me.
M. J.

I hope you know you are not alone. Many of us have felt this way before, and all the upcoming changes in your life are adding to your stress. Have you looked into talking to a therapist or counsellor? Or joining a local support group for pregnant moms? Ask at your hospital's maternity department about support groups.
Also, ask your doctor about prescribing an antidepressant that is safe in pregnancy.
Please don't feel you are alone; it will get better.

You've already gotten some great advice from the other moms. Just wanted to say you're not alone. I've had a lot of anxiety about disasters, natural and otherwise occuring in the lives of my loved ones, particularly my daughter. Lately I've been having more anxiety too as it seems I keep hearing about people who's loved ones have passed away. But at any rate, I wanted to say good for you for reaching out. I know it takes courage duing this difficult time. I hope you are able to talk to someone and maybe get a pregnancy-safe perscription to help control your anxiety. My heart goes out to you, and I hope you start feeling less alone.

A.
First of all let me start by saying you are NOT alone! I started to suffer from the exact same thing after I had my daughter, she was about a month old. I was terrified, I had no idea what it was or why I was having it. My heart would race, I would go into a cold sweat and every irrational thought there is went through my head. "what if I die, am I going crazy, what if I'm crazy and don't know I'm crazy, what if I do something to hurt myself or someone else??" These thoughts raced my mind day and night, I too went into the ER many times...then diagnosed with anxiety/panic disorder. I took zoloft while I was breastfeeding and it worked wonders! It never hurt my baby, she is completely healthy and beautiful. Please don't hesitate to call your doctor and if you don't have one- pick one!! Make an appointment ASAP and tell them you need to be put on something that's safe with pregnancy, I believe zoloft will be what they suggest. Those kids deserve a mommy that is healthy in mind and body, you are on the right track asking for help, please don't hesitite because you will be so happy once you realize there is help out there. If you need to talk on the phone, I can discuss with you my personal experience with this to put your mind at ease, I know what you're feeling and it's the worst feeling in the world. I'm sorry!!

Dear A.,
I read all responses you already have. It is so nice to have such support. Although I want to tell you that some things in our life are not easy to explain by medical reason.
Because I have been feeling awhile what you are experiencing now I would like to share some thoughts with you. I have 8mo. old boy, and after giving birth I started feeling much of fear and anxiety about everything. I didn't try medical solution because I believed that much of that is due to my inner world that has been dramatically changed. While aging we gain more worries about the surrounding world, and with your older children everything could be different. You are different now.
I DON'T know where all this comes from. As for me I was considered a healthy person in all senses. I believe that aside of our family life there is a world of our self. And some changes can affect us the way we would never foresee for ourselves. If we don't know a cause it doesn't mean we can't find the way out.
What I found helpful is to except this fear and anxiety as it is. To realize is a half way to win. All things go away gradually and eventually. However all advices you were given are good, I would say - have faith and trust what you deeply trusted before. There is no mantra against it but there is always help somewhere close to us - family, children, parents, friends, art, God etc. You are NOT alone :-)

And I agree sometimes it is just hormones playing with us :-) I feel much better now.

Truly, N.

A.,
My husband put us through quite a scare about a year and a half ago, I was in the hospital until 2 am with him in the emergency room due to all of the same symptoms you have been having. I am sure it is scary. The best advice I think I could give would be to try to continually think positively. It could just be a state of mind due to your pregnancy, obviously we all know we experience new feelings and emotions due to ever changing hormones while we are pregnant. I would also reccomend speaking to your doctor on the terms of a good vitamin that provokes positive thoughts. Anything that helps level out the ceratonin (sp?) in your brain can really help, I believe St. John's Wart is supposed to be good, but do not quote as I have never had personal experience with the vitamin. I just think 'curing' this in a natural way may help you since you are obviously opposed to taking medications. I am the same way, when I am pregnant (which I currently am, 2 months as of yesterday, yea!) during my pregnancies I've experienced terrible and frequent migraines but I won't even take a Tylonel, I actually supplement with a calcium and an extra B complex, both work extremely well and are perfectly healthy and fine to consume while pregnant. Again, I think it would be in your best interest to consult your family doctor and just see what he/she reccomends. Take care and by all means, I certainly all works out for the best! God's Blessings!!!!

Kind Regards,
Savannah
Mommy to Dylan James Douglas (8-17-2004)
Expecting 4/4/2007

Here is a link I came across while searching for panic attacks/anxiety and vitamins. I hope this information is helpful.

http://panicdisorder.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?zi=...

A.,
I just want you to know you aren't alone. I struggle with this, too, and I think that your doctors weren't quite on the mark with telling you to just get it under control. I would recommend counseling for it. Also, I took a pretty high dosage of meds during pregnancy, and my doctor just said that the meds were probably safer for the baby than my anxiety.
Please hang in there. If you need a good counseler, I can recommend one.
I will pray for you today.