I haven't had anxiety but have a close friend who has. He said it's terrifying, I can only imagine.

What I wanted to say was: even 'normal' pregnant women often feel that they cannot cope. I don't know if that makes you feel better or not?!! So definitely talk to the counsellor, because having someone else go through your feelings with you helps you get perspective on them, and as you say, the coping mechanisms for if the anxiety comes back would be very helpful.

Just know that everyone feels this way at some point - not to diminish the anxiety, at all, just I mean, we all get overwhelmed and feel like we won't be able to do it. I bet all of the parents you've met (even your own) have had moments where they wonder what they got themselves into.* You will be able to do it. Luckily, as they grow, so do you. You learn on the way, by doing it, and you get better at it. It's tiring to start with, but you'll find ways that work for you to cope.

You can really do this. If it helps, the fact that you're so aware of your emotions and feelings and are taking steps to do something to help yourself gave me the impression of a very strong and empowered woman.

Good luck


*a few hours after T was born, I remember sitting in a quiet room in the birth centre with M lying next to me sleeping, and her lying in her cot sleeping, and thinking, "What the hell am I doing? I can't even cope with one!!!"