I know my last few posts have been on postpartum anxiety. I know not all of my readers have experienced this or even had a child but I want to thank you for sticking with me. I feel like this is such an important subject because it's not discussed. After you have a baby you fill out all these questionnaires about postpartum depression but anxiety is not mentioned. They talk to you about the sadness you might feel but they don't talk about the fear you may have, and they should.
When this happened to me I was alone, I felt alone. Not only did I have postpartum anxiety but I was also dealing with PTSD because of the traumatic birth we had. I just assumed something was wrong me with and I never even thought about telling anyone because I didn't want anyone to judge me or think I was crazy. When I actually did share my birth story with people I got the typical remarks, "Oh my God I've never heard of something like that happening! You should sue!" or "I can't believe that happened I am so sorry! You should sue!" All of the comments I received were well intentioned, don't get me wrong, but if they only knew the true feelings I had inside, the fear, the anger, the rage, they would know suing wasn't going to solve my issues. (And just to mention I would love to sue but our legal system doesn't care what horrific things this doctor and hospital put me and my son through, we are both medically "fine" so pretty much no harm no foul, talk about a blow to your mental health!) . We need to open up about mental health in our society. I wish the comments I would have received was "Wow I never heard that happening, I'm here if you ever need to talk." or "I can't imagine having to go through that, are you ok? It's ok to ask for help." The problem is people are scared to say that. They are scared they might offend.
So I always go back to the why. Why am I sharing this with you? Well because I want women to know they are NOT alone! Postpartum anxiety is a legitimate issue that should be discussed and you should not have to feel like you are crazy! It is OK to ask for help! Go to your doctor, discuss your symptoms, find a support group! I have been introduced to a few on facebook that have been so supportive. But if you are really struggling with these symptoms find a therapist, a social worker, someone! It is ok and normal to feel the way you do but it's also important to recognize it and ask for help! According to ADAA (Anxiety and Depression Association of America) 9% of women experience postpartum anxiety. YOU ARE NOT ALONE!
I want to leave you with some links for support and knowledge. I feel very strongly on this issue and that is why I recently began talking about it. I started therapy 6 months after my son was born. It took my 6 months to ask for help. I suffered, with just the support of my family, who are great by the way. Sometimes you need to talk it out with someone else or find a different coping mechanism. You are strong and can handle this! Don't be afraid of getting help!
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