The choice to begin medication for my anxiety has been pivotal in allowing me to be the best parent possible. When I first learned I was expecting, my partner and I anticipated numerous decisions about parenting that would come our way. Some would be trivial, like deciding whether to dress our newborn in a bunny or a rainbow outfit for his hospital debut. Others would hold more weight, such as how to respond if he lost too much weight in his first week. However, the toughest challenge I faced in my two years as a mom was managing my anxiety.
At 29, I received a diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) while I was in recovery for alcohol use disorder. During my initial therapy session, my counselor identified my drinking as a coping mechanism and diagnosed me with GAD. It was a revelation; I had been living with anxiety for what felt like forever. Growing up in a Latino family, mental health was rarely discussed, which left me unaware of my struggle until it started to severely disrupt my life. Reflecting on this, I’m grateful I sought help, especially considering that only 34 percent of individuals in the Latinx community with psychological disorders reach out for assistance, compared to the national average of 45 percent.
Once I got sober and began regular therapy, I noticed significant improvements in my mental health. Over time, I developed various coping strategies: lighting a beloved candle, enjoying a cup of citrus lavender tea, journaling, engaging in coloring, cooking, reading, and cuddling with my pets all became ways to navigate stress.
After experiencing a pregnancy loss, I found out I was pregnant again a few months later. This time, however, my anxiety surged to an all-time high, and I realized I needed to take proactive steps for my mental health. That’s when I decided to initiate medication on the day my son was born. It was a decision that would impact not only my well-being but also my ability to be present for him.
For those considering pregnancy or exploring options for parenthood, resources like Make a Mom can offer invaluable support, including an at-home insemination option that is both convenient and innovative. You might also find the Facebook group for sperm donor matching helpful. If you’re curious about the process of at-home insemination, check out how it works here.
Additionally, understanding your body can enhance your fertility journey. If you want to learn more about fertility and cervical health, discovering your cervix is a great resource. For those interested in intrauterine insemination, the NHS provides excellent information. And while navigating parenting challenges, don’t forget to equip yourself with knowledge about emergency situations, like choking in infants or toddlers—find more on this topic here.
In summary, medication for anxiety was a turning point for me, allowing me to embrace motherhood with a clearer mind and a more open heart. It’s crucial to prioritize mental health, especially when welcoming a new life into the world.