Hi!
I recently started the program and just today started week 3. I have seen some progress as I've went shopping twice now (didn't do much of that before). My hubby, toddler and I went to the mall. My hubby played with my daughter in the play area while I went shopping for a while 2x. The first time I made it through a few mild anxiety attacks. The second time I went (this past weekend) I don't even think I had one attack at all! I didn't even realize it until we got home. Yeah!! Baby steps....

However, today I am overwhelmed by everything. Trying to fit in exercise, 3x of relaxation CD, staying away from sugar, as well as taking care of my 2 yr old and fixing meals and keeping the house clean etc.... the list goes on and on. (Yes, I'm a stay at home mom. )
I'm also still struggling with grief over the loss of my baby (stillborn in August of this year). I bottled a lot of my feelings and now I know they are coming out in anxious and depressing behaviors.

Well, I'd better go do my yoga so I can tackle the rest of my list. Positive self talk.......
Here's to an exciting New Year defeating anxiety and depression.

Hi!
I am just starting this program. I am not in the same situation as you, but I can kind of relate. I have been on antidepressants for about 8 years. My hubby and I decided we wanted to try to have a baby and I wanted to get off of my meds to do so (I wanted to be healthy for the baby). With the help of my doctor I weaned down slowly. I was off completely for about 4 or 5 days when I relapsed, and the worst depression yet. So now is the time we had set aside to start trying for a baby, and here I am, just trying to get better. I know I am not well enough yet to try for a baby, so those plans are on hold, and I'm disappointed. Not only that, but I am back on meds, and a higher dose just to get me feeling better! So I just want you to know you are among peers here, and also, that being in this forum is so helpful because the people in here can totally see what it's like, and want to help each other out.
PEACE and God Bless!

Workoutangel,
Wow, congratulations on your successful shopping trip! that's a big one and you did it! It will only keep getting better as you progress through the program. Go forward.

Take it easy on yourself!!!!I know what it's like to lose a baby, it's tough and you're really doing well. Give yourself time and please ease up on YOU. Think of the courage it took for you to start this program. That's a major accomplishment all in itself. Good for you!

A take out pizza wouldn't hurt anyone now and then when you need a break from cooking or maybe just sandwiches for dinner. All will survive.
Just how clean does the home need to be? I used to be neurotic about it and it wasn't worth it.
How about hubby? I'm sure he's a bright man who knows how to throw in some laundry now and then and can handle a bit of vacuuming and dusting and cleaning a bathroom if need be.
Let go and let him help you out with some of these things. It doesn't make you any less of a wife or mother, it just shows that you're human.

A pastor of our church gave this amazing Mother's Day sermon several years back. He stressed the FACT that being a mom is a full time job in itself. He specifically said that he was referring to the care and nurturing of one or more children. He also said that this did NOT include all the rest - house work and cooking and laundry. Just caring for the children. He then went on to say that it is the husband's job to help take care of his wife, which includes the daily chores.
Think about it. Children need care from early morn until they go to bed. That's at least 12 hours a day.
You are managing to do this program, along with caring for your child. Those are two major accomplishments!!!!!If you miss a day of exercise, that's OK, if sandwiches are for dinner, that's OK, if the laundry becomes a two person job, that's OK, if the house does not stay clean all the time, that's OK.

YOU are on the road to recovery and that is something to be very proud of and it's something that your precious little one will benefit from for years to come.

Huge hugs to you..
Now go give yourself a hug.
God bless