I have pre-existing anxiety and now I’m pregnant.. what to do?

[Mlhebert08]

Hello. I’m 31 years old, mother of an almost 2 year old girl and just found out we are expecting again. I’ve dealt with anxiety most of my adult life, starting in college. Since our first was born, it has gotten somewhat out of control and affecting my normal life. Symptoms are mostly feeling like I’m going to drop dead, can’t breathe, heart will stop, dizziness, fear of fainting. I also feel like I’m just watching everyone else around me live. I feel like I’m separated from my own body if that makes sense. I’m prescribed Xanax on an as needed basis which does help, also was starting to try CBD oils. So my question is, since I haven’t seen the doc yet for this pregnancy, is there anything that is safe to take for Anxiety during pregnancy? Or just relaxation and breathing techniques? Also have never done therapy, does anyone find that helps a lot?

[Lm92]

Hi there! I understand your fears. I've been through pregnancy with generalized anxiety disorder and have a lot of the same fears as you. I know Xanax isn't generally recommended during pregnancy, but some SSRI antidepressants are. My doctor and OB decided on Celexa (citalopram) while I was pregnant and it made a world of difference. One good thing is that often, the pregnancy hormones our bodies produce often have a calming affect. I hope that's the case for you. Definitely talk to your doctor ASAP. There are medicines considered safe, so you don't have to suffer, but definitely consult with your doctor and OB first. Congratulations and best of luck to you!