Living with untreated anxiety can be utterly draining — mentally, emotionally, and physically. One new mother shares her journey in tackling her symptoms and crafting a strategy for coping with late-onset postpartum anxiety.
One chilly November day, when my son was 11 months old, I found myself on the playroom rug, watching him play with his toy trucks. As he made vroom-vroom noises, my mind began to spiral with anxious thoughts, fixated on past worries — perhaps about finances or trivial matters that no longer held significance. In that moment, I felt paralyzed, my skin flushing and breath quickening. My mind was racing, and I often found myself gripping the hem of my jeans or the rug’s edge, convinced that if I let go, I would fall deeper into despair.
Eventually, I managed to break free from that panic. Once I calmed down, I realized I had been completely disconnected from my surroundings and my son. I picked up my phone and reached out to my doctor. When the nurse answered, my voice trembled as I admitted, “I think I’m dealing with postpartum anxiety.” Taking that step was a monumental moment for me — a decision I now look back on with a sense of pride.
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In summary, acknowledging postpartum anxiety is a crucial step in regaining control over your mental health. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help; doing so can lead to a healthier, more connected experience with your child.