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Pregnancy, Bipolar 2, ceasing medication, social anxiety and all around confused feelings

NaiCasual Contributor13 July 2016, 6:16 pm AEST

Pregnancy, Bipolar 2, ceasing medication, social anxiety and all around confused feelings

I'm not really sure what prompted me to write this but I've been feeling so l alone lately and I guess it'd just be nice to have vented and maybe see if anyone else is doing though similar stuff so here it goes..I was diagnosed with bipolar 2 disorder in 2007 at a young age, after years of therapy, various medication changes with related health issues I finally found myself in a place of stability at the beginning of this year and my psychiatrist began to cease my medication slowly with plans to be completely medication free by the next year. But an unplanned pregnancy a few months into the plan made it so that I had to cease my medication completely in less than a week within the first few weeks of my pregnancy in order to prevent potential birth defects. The withdrawal period was rough to say the least and prompted with it a morning sickness I still suffer from 19 weeks into my pregnancy. The upheaval to my medication schedule, has leaked into my moods and I myself deeply effected by the whiplashing mood shifts between the mania and the heart shattering depression. This instability makes me fearful of the future as a parent, socially withdrawn and at times suicidal. I guess I'm just wondering if anyone else had issues like these, able to survive the mood swings without medication and most importantly I guess has anyone had problems connecting to their pregnancy/baby because of bipolar related issues and if so how were you able to overcome it? Mostly it'd just be nice to hear from someone, to not feel so alone

4 replies

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In response to: Pregnancy, Bipolar 2, ceasing medication, social anxiety and all around confused feelings

mrkotterSenior Contributor13 July 2016, 7:35 pm AEST

Re: Pregnancy, Bipolar 2, ceasing medication, social anxiety and all around confused feelings

I'm a bloke so I can't offer advice directly on your situation. But I can offer an ear. Your not alone and I can listen.

In response to: Pregnancy, Bipolar 2, ceasing medication, social anxiety and all around confused feelings

Unknown userMember13 July 2016, 7:53 pm AEST

Re: Pregnancy, Bipolar 2, ceasing medication, social anxiety and all around confused feelings

Hi @Nai

I think its great that you have reached out here for support. Congratulations on becoming a mum. I can relate to how you are feeling, and the social anxiety & feeling confused and I guess you wanting to have more clarity.

Some suggetions I thought mite help you

Some hospitals run mood disorder groups

CBT program

Mindfulness program

ACT program

I thought these programs mite help you manage your condition better and help you feel better by getting out and meeting new people. I've not had Bipolar or faced the issues you are dealing with but I have suffered from depression and anxiety. And I have manged my illness without medication.

What as helped you managed your mood in the past?

Even though you have this illness it does not prevent you from being a great mum and most parents feel fearful at becoming a parent, so you are not alone. I think its important that you work out what is best for you and your little family. I'm not sure of the supports you have in your area but have you need extra support, I know lifeline would be able to assist you with this.

Hope this helps!

In response to: Re: Pregnancy, Bipolar 2, ceasing medication, social anxiety and all around confused feelings

hope77Senior Contributor13 July 2016, 9:09 pm AEST

Re: Pregnancy, Bipolar 2, ceasing medication, social anxiety and all around confused feelings

Hey @Nai Just wanted to say Best wishes for the birth of your Baby, Is your sickness due to the withdrawal of meds or is morning sickness. @Former-Member had it right that maybe try some mindfulness or meditation. it's hard to go through a pregnancy with this condition. I personally went through one of my pregnancy with depression and it was tough. the only way I got through that time was to talking to my parents and a doctor. Also people with the illness Bipolar can and make wonderful Parents. My Mum had Bipolar and brought up 8 children and one being adopted. She was the best mother in the world and I miss her greatly. Hope you can reach out to someone in your community like a Doctor or a family member. You are doing an amazing job bringing a brand new life into this world, And I know this Forum will always be here. Be kind to yourself

In response to: Pregnancy, Bipolar 2, ceasing medication, social anxiety and all around confused feelings

SquirrelSenior Contributor15 July 2016, 10:43 am AEST

Re: Pregnancy, Bipolar 2, ceasing medication, social anxiety and all around confused feelings

Hello @Nai It sounds like 2 big transitions for you to make at the same time. Managing either of those on its own would be a big deal. I can hear how much you want to be a great mum. I can also hear how fearful you are about the unknown. The uncertainties that pregnancy, childbirth and raising children bring are universal. The uncertainties of managing your mental illness during the perinatal period are not. There are many great support options for you to do well. Positive role models are so important aren’t they? It sounds like you have found a couple here already with @Former-Member and @hope77 with support from @mrkotter. Many maternity hospitals have a dedicated centre or unit for mental health support throughout pregnancy and the early post natal period. Getting linked in early can provide you with access to good support and programs to support your mental wellbeing whilst pregnant.

It is great that you have reached out on this forum to gain support and understanding about what has worked for others. You might like to speak with a counsellor on the PANDA Helpline 1300 726 306 M-F 10am-5pm AEST or website www.panda.org.au.I hope you continue to connect with those who can guide and support you. What has helped so far?

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