Pregnancy is a complicated process, and although you’re filled with joy, you may also have feelings that aren’t typical for you. One emotional issue you might face is a dramatic increase in the anxiety that you experience. We understand how stressful this is here at Eagle’s Landing OB/GYN, which is why we’re offering some solutions below to help you cope with your excess pregnancy anxiety.
Rest When You Can for as Long as You Can
Being pregnant might mean that it’s tougher than ever to get the rest that you really need. If you’re not resting or sleeping well, this can amplify those feelings of anxiety. Taking the opportunity to rest any time you can is a key part of helping yourself to get a handle on anxiety, not to mention to take care of you and your baby. One of the most common recommendations we make for our patients during their pregnancies is to rest often.
Write out Your Feelings
Journaling, or even just doing a brain dump of how you’re feeling, can be incredibly helpful in managing your anxiety. In your head, those thoughts and feelings feel bigger than you are. When you put them down on paper, it’s sometimes a lot easier to see that the stuff that’s causing you the most anxiety is maybe not that big a deal anymore. This can also help you to sort through how you’re feeling, which can make it easier to talk about what’s happening.
Find Ways to Rein in Your Brain
A lot of times anxiety is made worse by thoughts and fears that keep cycling in your brain. Some activities that help to clear your head a bit, besides journaling, can be really helpful. Meditation sounds complicated, but it really isn’t. There are lots of guided meditation apps and YouTube videos that make it even easier. If you’re not ready for meditation, trying deep breathing exercises. These exercises can be just as helpful.
Get Physically Active if You’re Cleared to Do So
Exercise helps to release endorphins, which do great things for your body and your brain, including your emotional responses. Make sure that the physical activities you want to do are within the recommendations from your doctor, just to be on the safe side. Activities like yoga, walking, and water aerobics all work your muscles and can help you to feel better on multiple levels, including relieving those anxious feelings.
Talk to Your Doctor
It’s also important to talk to your doctor about how you’re feeling and what you’re experiencing. Having anxiety during pregnancy is a normal occurrence, but it can still be upsetting for you. Your doctor can help you to find a plan of action that works for you, or if you need some help managing your anxiety while pregnant, contact us today. At Eagles Landing OB/GYN in Stockbridge, GA, we care about your overall well-being and want you to have a safe and happy pregnancy.