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When I had PPD, the counselor suggested I set aside half an hour at a specific time each day to worry. I was not allowed to worry about anything at any other time so if a worry crossed my mind I was to write it down, promise myself that I would worry about it later and then force myself to put it out of my mind. Funny thing was, when it was time to worry about my worries it was really hard to switch it on - they just didn't have the power over me that they would have done at the time they had occurred to me earlier. I don't know if it could help you but it really helped me (even though I thought it sounded stupid when she suggested it).

Sending love

For me, writing it down-list what I need too, write out what's bothering me, and getting some exercise

@travelgirl1: I would force myself to stop thinking about it and every time a negative thought would creep into my mind I would scold myself and replace it with a new thought. The trick is to not let your mind be idle - read books, do puzzles, watch TV shows, sing along to your favourite songs and focus really hard on being "present" in whatever you're doing. It's so hard but it does get easier with practice.

Sorry you're having a rough time - hope you get some definitive answers soon!

My answers to stress are prayer and walking - I don't know if that helps you or not. If you and A can get out for a little stroll in the wind and rain today, it might help! We're supposed to get some sunshine tomorrow.

I'm thinking of you and your family and praying for you

I saw this ted talk: http://www.ted.com/talks/kelly_mcgonigal_how_to_make_stress_your_friend?language=en

I think it has a really good mental approach: to think of the stress as preparing you for these challenges. (Vs. something you shouldn't be doing/ experiencing.) It has helped me a lot! When I was having anxiety last summer I would literally tell myself that, "this stress is preparing me for these challenges." It sounds simple, but I think a mental shift in perspective like that can help. Think of the stress as aiding you in protecting your baby, for instance, instead of doing harm.

Also, exercise helps a lot. Just walking, or just getting out of the house help clear a mind as well!

I'm sorry you're dealing with that, it's so scary!

I had really bad anxiety after my son was stillborn last year. Things that helped: therapy where I did this thing called brainspotting, which helped move the trauma through my body and mind; meditation- I have an app on my phone with short guided meditations called Insight Timer; starting a home yoga practice; grounding exercises- my therapist taught me some but I bet you can google. Also walking helped and is good because it's bilateral- engages both sides of brain/body. Focus on breathing. Also, just being mindful of it, which is harder than it sounds. But noticing "okay, my chest feels tight... I'm just noticing it without judgement.."- that usually helps mine calm down.

One more thing- escape! Get immersed in a good book/movie/podcast.

Good luck!!

I'm sorry you're dealing with this! It might help to remind yourself that at the moment, you only have so much control over the situation and it's ok to escape mentally for a little bit. Maybe lose yourself in a silly book (worked for me even on awful awful days when it was either that or cry in a corner...), or ask your husband to watch LO and treat yourself to something you've wanted for a while - a walk, alone time, meeting with a friend... hugs!

@travelgirl1: I'm sorry you're going through this! Big hugs! I'm not great at dealing with stress either. Distraction is what I usually try.

@travelgirl1: best of luck!! We're around all weekend if you and J need some time together. L would love some time with A.