coping with ppd unmedicated

[Mirrormonkey]

nak

So I know I am having some ppd issues, so far 10 weeks pp, I have been able to keep it under control. Today I lost it and I am feeling terrible.

Ds2 is having a rough day and cries if I put him down, I finally got him to sleep nursing and Ds1 after my telling him to keep it down had a screaming fit because he couldn't reach a toy, which of course woke ds2. I flipped. I started screaming and swearing and I wanted to smack ds1! So I put ds2 in the swing and hid in the bathroom for a few minutes to catch my breath.

I feel in control now, but am wondering if I need to try meds... I hate meds! I come from a long line of rx pill junkies and because of that I am afraid to even take tylenol. I tried effexor and celexa about 12 years ago(for ed) and just never adjusted to them and constantly felt like I was on hallucinogens and had brain shivers.

I don't know what to do... I feel bipolar, my ups and downs are so extreme lately.

[goodygumdrops]

You should see a psychiatrist. Also, there is an amazing book, This Isn't What I Expected, by Karen Kleinman. Just talking about your situation can help relieve some of the stress and anxiety your feelings.

Don't wait. It's very important for you to be healthy for your children. Left untreated, depression and anxiety can lead to cognitive delays and have long term implications for the kids.

I hope you feel better soon.

[K-Mom3]

There are MANY things that you can do to treat depression without medications. For some people, it isn't enough. But I think that it is always worth a try. Y'know, try less invasive measures before you resort to more invasive measures.

Counseling is an option--Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has a good reputation.

Here are some books that helped me to find the solutions I needed. I was able to get them at the library:


The Mood Cure
This one is mostly about supplements. Both vitamins and amino acids such as 5-HTP and Tryptophan

When Your Body Gets the Blues
This one is a study for women with more mild symptoms but the solutions helped me a lot even with my full blown depression. The women in the study had 20 minutes of outdoor exercise every day as well as a vitamin supplement. Lots of research about how the brain is effected by these 3 elements--light, exercise and the vitamins--and also some tips about how to overcome obstacles that make it difficult for you personally to actually DO such a treatment regimen.

Women's Moods
The authors do recommend meds but they also have a great section on self care.

and good luck. It has taken me a long time to get all the pieces in place for me to be healthy but I'm finally getting there! Hopefully you can do it too!

[Aka mommy]

I read a wonderful book titled 'Sleepless Days' and it really resonated with me. I also started on 5htp (after i was no longer pumping) and i have heard great things about Sam-E. The 5 htp REALLY had amazing effects on me. I also instituted a better diet and working out at least 5 times a week and B complex and tanning for 5 mins 3 times a week (not saying this is right for everyone, but simple time outdoors can help just as well). Those are the only things that got me through.

FTR - i initially tried lexapro but it made me so ill i couldn't function on it.