Long term ppp

[becm]

Hi. I'm just trying to reach out to someone who may have been through similar and still going through. I had ppp and ptsd from previous sexual assault, had to have cesarean due to flashbacks Tec. Had ppp or depression with psychosis after. Little one will be 4 in 3 weeks. Still on meds and when under pressure still having periods of quasi psychosis. Has anyone else suffered long term?

[AstroSue]

Similar here. My baby is nearly 3. Since PP I've been diagnosed with bipolar and PTSD and have basically been ill since pregnancy. It's only now that I am managing to open up to anyone about what's been happening with me and I only started antipsychotics just before Christmas. They've already helped a lot though. The next step (once all the meds are right) is therapy to address the trauma.

Until I found APP I really felt like the only person still struggling this long after a postnatal breakdown.

[Jcollins Volunteer]

Hi there, sounds like you’ve been through such a lot!

It can sometimes take years to come through this illness. I had a short episode when my baby was 1week old then a terrible year following with awful depression which then resulted in coming off all meds too swiftly and relapsing. That second bout I spent 4 months in hospital.

I would say it took about 2 1/2 years to fully recover from the first episode. I’m still taking lithium (5 years on) and although I was intending to come off it slowly Ive decided to stay on it for now with everything going on in the world.

Hang on in there.

Hopefully they can get medication right for you. Are you also getting some sort of talking therapy? X

[amyfj Volunteer]

Hi becm,

Sorry to hear of the tough times you've been through. I have experienced similar and since my mid twenties have had 3 episodes of stress induced psychosis with accompanying depressive episodes.

It seemed to be that every 4yrs I had a mini breakdown and would come off meds with doctor agreement each time only to relapse 4yrs down the line.

This time I have stayed on a minimal dose of olanzapine and escitalopram and this winter am marking 5yrs since an episode.

I think it's all about finding what works for you as an individual. I have also learnt to ask for help sooner and get support from my loved ones.

If you have any questions or would like to 1:1 message I would be more than happy to chat!

Amyx

[becm]

Hi. Thanks everyone. I don't know what to say because you have all been there. It's lovely , if that's the right words, to hear from people who are experiencing the same or have. I guess I'm reaching out as 8 know I'm on the cusp of being on the edge if you know what I mean. In control but I am learning to recognise signs. Sorry I'm be8mg all about me.

[Pikorua Volunteer]

Yep, I am here, too dearest becm. You are not on your own and APP is a lovely community of mums I can trust.

My partner and I suffered PTS, because of "wrong doing" by members of staff and patients in a psychiatric hospital.

My recovery of PPP took a long time, because of additional stressors such as grief. In addition my trauma and undiagnosed BP1 at the time caused immense sleep deprivation for nearly 8 years.

However, there is light at the end of the tunnel with the support of good health professionals, therapeutic avenues, a type of therapy that may fit your needs, self-care helps by allowing me time and pursuing something which gives you enjoyment and pleasure.

Tracking and journalising can be helpful for your own well being, but could be used as records to bring along to support network members. I always had to take notes, because of low concentration level. Of course loved ones are important, too- including a place, where you feel that can be a sanctuary, a place where you can wind down. In my case it is always my home.

Take good care...I am in the middle of home schooling, but thought my quick message might help...remember you are not on your own and people are listening without judgment, that was a huge healing process for me, when I joined this amazing community.

xxx