Stress and pregnancy

So I am sorry if it seems like all I do here is vent, but I really have no where else sometimes and it does relate to the baby  lol

My stress levels are through the roof right now. My job (I am only source of income right now, planned that way but its become more overwhelming as each day goes on) Hormones are playing a role in my ability to cope I am sure. Depression is kicking in, and its just getting crazy for me.

I literally spent the past weekend in my bedroom. Left to eat once, and that was about it. My husband is getting worried about me, and I am getting worried but my doc's don't seem to be on same page. I am not danger to self or others, I would know to go get help ASAP if that happened....but I am just not functioning and that cannot be good for baby.

Any ideas on stress/depression relief? I can't quit (because thats my first instinct trust me lol), and I can't afford to go on FMLA already...so I sit here with my head spinning about to cry every five minutes.

I had a very high stress pregnancy- was the only source of income for 3 kids and spouse----then I learned my spouse had an addiction issue- he went to rehab when I was nearing the end of my pregnancy (I was 3-4 weeks from my c-section)-so I had to care for 2 teens and a toddler alone; all the household stuff, make him feel like he wasn't forgotten at rehab, and work full time.  I had very bad depression (which had started probably mid way through my pregnancy, tied to all the stress I believe); and I just did what I needed to because I had to...it was HARD.  I spent a lot of my night sleepless and stressed- but I did make it through.  I didn't want to take meds if I was making it.  My support system was ZERO--I had people verbally telling me they were supportive, but they didn't come and physically help.  I was exhausted and really just wanted to drive my car far away, and just be alone.  I wasn't planning on hurting myself or others, I was just completely overwhelmed.   Anyways- my point was / is your not alone...it may feel that way sometimes....But know there are other people who are struggling too.  If you have confided in your Dr and they aren't listening- perhaps it is time to find another Dr- someone that wants to handle they whole you- or try PCP if baby Dr isn't willing, find a therapist...someone that you can bend their ear to vent and feel heard and understood without judgment.  Good luck & you can do it (no you cant quit!). 

Mybe you should try Prozac. It's pregnancy safe and helps with depression and anxiety. I am on 40mg daily and think it works great.

Studies are always finding new information and I'm definitely not a doctor, but Prozac taken during the last half of pregnancy has been associated with persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn, or PPHN.  Like I said, I am no expert and information changes, but it is important to weigh the risks.  

Maybe, all I know is it's supposed to be the safest anti-depressant for pregnancy. When someone is dealing with clinical depression they have to measure the risks vs benefits. Since she is pregnant with #4 and the only source of income (also has an autistic child at home if I remember correctly) then she needs to be able to function on a daily basis. I have been battling clinical severe depression since I was a kid and from personal experience, I see red flags in her post. Therapy alone is not always the answer. The difference for some people who take anti-depressants, is that can be the only thing helping them get out of bed in the morning to face the day. Nobody likes having to take them but if it helps you be a better mother, then sometimes its necessary.

You are correct. Oldest is autistic and struggling with new meds/therapy of his own, which is a huge part of why DH stays home with kids and goes to school while I work right now. This is baby #4, that while we can afford, it isn't going to be with ease so I feel really guilty. I was depressed before this, and struggling with the new post op blues and this is just compounding it. I am going to look into all of my options including medication because I am doing no one any good this way.

Therapy actually made my symptoms worse so my OB is one that suggested I stop going for now. I appreciate everyone's ideas and input. I am willing to do anything at this point for all of my children (and my marriage/career!)

Couldn't agree more...I am actually grappling with the issue right now and surprisingly, I'm not a huge fan of therapy either. But, I've got to get it together for my family, too...although by comparison, my load seems miniscule.  I wish the best for both of you. 

I didn't mean to minimize anyone's load at all. Honestly, with depression choosing what to wear can feel like the weight of the world. So for anyone feeling even an ounce I feel for. I am just to the point where it is affecting my job, and my interaction with family so it has to stop.There has to be a bottom to the pit right?

There's no way to go but up, right?  :)

I battled some depression for a few months in December, it just went away. But like you I did not want to go anywhere! My husband had to drag me out of the house to do stuff and it is totally not like me. It did go away. But you should def talk to your doctor, I did and had phone conversations with a support group it seemed to help me...Good luck