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Reducing exhaustion, anxiety and depression, during pregnancy

post #1 of 11
Thread Starter 
Over the last few days, I've been thinking about exhaustion, anxiety, and depression and how to reduce it during pregnancy. This is a list I've come up with for myself. I thought I would share, and I would love to hear other suggestions!

  • Learn how to relax! This may be aided by using a program such as Hypnobirthing, Painless Childbirth, progressive relaxation, yoga, mediation, etc.
  • Exercise- even if it is just a short walk.
  • Get out in the sunshine, and/or take a vitamin D supplement.
  • Get your iron levels checked, and increase your iron intake if they are low.
  • Drink a cup of chamomile tea.
  • Take Rescue Remedy as needed.
  • Take a warm shower, or soak in a warm bath to loosen muscles.
  • Get a massage.
  • Get a chiropractic adjustment if you are experiencing back, neck, or hip pain.
  • Face your fears and concerns. Journal. Read "Birthing From Within". Make lists. Talk to a good friend. See a counselor.
  • Reduce your consumption of caffeine, nicotine, carbohydrates, and sugar. This will help keep your blood sugar more stable.
  • Reduce your screen time: Excessive internet use linked to depression, research shows http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology...use-depression
  • Make sure you are getting enough sleep. Practice good "sleep hygiene". http://www.sleepfoundation.org/artic...ancy-and-sleep http://www.babycenter.com/0_the-basi...gnancy_7820.bc
Anything else?
post #2 of 11
How much vitamin d? I am taking 1000 to 2000 ius a day right now.
post #3 of 11
Guided meditation is definitely helping me. There's a podcast I subscribe to for free--"Meditation Oasis." I don't know that I'm always able to focus on it the way I should, but if nothing else it's a really relaxing way to take a few minutes for myself and reflect on stuff.
post #4 of 11
eat and drink frequently

make sleep a priority
post #5 of 11
the warm bath... you can add lavender to it... the scent is relaxing too.
post #6 of 11
Thanks -- these are timely and great reminders for me!
post #7 of 11
Deep/diapraghm breathing! It gets oxygen to your brain and is very soothing. It's how I wake up in the morning, as I am so NOT a morning person.

Protein breakfast w/B6. I began taking B6 for morning sickness and discovered that it perked up my energy as well. After switching my breakfast from oatmeal to eggs and adding B6 I feel fantastic! This might not work for everyone, but consider your overall nutrition and consider adjusting your diet.

Eat frequently! Helps with blood sugar and avoiding sudden hunger (I tend to not notice until I’m starving, so it’s best to just munch around the clock).

Tap into your sense of empowerment. YOU CAN DO THIS. Just ‘surviving’ this is a huge accomplishment that some people will never know.

Don’t be too hard on yourself. You ARE doing the best you can and you are doing a great job.

Understand that your body is at the mercy of a lot of hormones and uncomfortable physical processes. Anxiety/etc is not your fault. Get help if you need it, and don’t feel weak.

Talk to someone – it’s not silly to voice your concerns if something is bothering you. Even if it’s silly and tiny.
post #8 of 11
DHA supplement seemed to perk me up
post #9 of 11
great suggestions!
reading good fiction helps me too...
and allowing myself to go to bed early.
I was found to be low in vit. D and my midwife recommended 4,000 IUs a day. I am able to do half that or so usually and I have noticed a big improvement with my energy and achiness.
post #10 of 11
magnesium is supposed to be a mood lifter too
post #11 of 11
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