My Experience Having a Baby while Living with Schizophrenia
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 15 ก.ย. 2024
- I live with and manage my schizoaffective disorder, and on April 12, 2021 I had my first baby. This video is an update on how I managed medications while pregnant, considerations we made for labour and delivery, and what the first few days adjusting to life with a newborn have been like.
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Lauren, I thought you weren't supposed to have a baby because you have Schizophrenia, are you a very naughty girl, Lauren, Dear?
Remember, Dear, you made a video explaining that the percent of your baby having Schizophrenia is much to high to get pregnant, yet you had a baby. Lauren, you REALLY NEED your Risperdal and other antipsychotic medications...
Such a naughty, bad girl, Lauren Dear.
Lauren, you really should go to the hospital and not have any more children, do as you tell others to do.
Lauren, drug yourself until you begin to drool from you mouth.
I am a psychiatric RN. You are absolutely radiant with joy!! Please continue to make videos as you are able. They are so informative!!
I’m a firmer psychiatrict RN. Or as we were called in Scotland Registered Mental Nurse. I hope that name has maybe changed a bit by now
I’d love to hear more from Psychiatric RNs! I’m a mental health advocate who suffers from mental-health disease, conditions. I’ve found many in your field not always as engaging, utilizing a variety of tools while patients are hospitalized.
RN here too. Mom of 7 with my eldest challenged by schizophrenia. Congratulations on your new blessing.❤ You are so inspiring and lovely.
@@sherrylanning1896 hi sherry,we want to read more comments about females who have babies and about their experience during pregnancy ,and after pregnancy....can you give us more details about your pregnancies,about medications during pregancy you was using?Did you use medicine during pregnancy and after pregnancy?...when you suffered from sczophernia?
She's a psychopath and profiting from it, and so are you most likely. Be well.
My mom was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. Psychotic symptoms happen. Hospitalizations happen. A strong support system is invaluable. I love what that experience brought into my life, even when it was hard, and I would never choose any other family than my own. I feel comfortable around others with mental illness (which I later realized that a lot of my friends do not) and I learned the value of self-care. I’m so excited for you and appreciate the contribution you are making through your channel. Thank you so much and congratulations!
This was really heartwarming to read. It can be so easy to forget that there is also a lot of good that can come from being so familiar with mental illness. I’m so happy you and your mom have a good relationship. I really wish more people knew that people with mental illnesses can still be good parents.
My mom was as well at age 45. Many prayers were going through something similar.
Wow! So happy for you that you have a positive outlook on your mom and her mental illness. Many people say women with depression, schizophrenia... shouldn’t have kids. You show that that is not true. Women who have depression, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder... can have kids and raise them well. It’s great that things went well for you.
I wish there where more people like you in this world. I have bi polar and my birth mother did too. Well does but I was given up for adoption at 3 months cause my mom couldn’t care for me and it’s the most selfless act but either way it wouldn’t matter to me. I love my parents (adopted ones). My life couldn’t be better.
how exciting...
This kiddo is so lucky to have parents who are so in tune with the importance of self-care and mental wellness. He'll do just fine :D Massive congrats to you both!
Ali stair Caradec. My concern is that it runs in the genes.
@daveyboy9000 it's a comment section if people can deal with comment that's their problem
@@cliffpinchon2832 can you use easy words please?
@@cliffpinchon2832 dude you are literally arguing in favour of eugenics.
@@cliffpinchon2832 that is so wrong to think and say! Every family has serious diseases running through them! You sound like Hitler! I’m sure your family is full of illnesses too! Humans are the same in terms of all going through hardship and illness, and doing their best to overcome that!
I literally let out a huge “AWWWWWWWWWEEEE” when I saw the thumbnail. So precious ❤️
Ditto!! Congratulations.
@@critney19 today I saw a person totally out of his mind, probably the family does not know where that person is. what to do when we meet people in these conditions.
I grew up with a schizophrenic mother...it was hell...You seem like you have a good understanding of your illness so I hope your baby will have a wonderful life...
Sending you hugs
@@sharonmchugh7730 thank you ❤️
Same here. I understand you
Sending you love... I also had an experience with my schizophrenic mother that I would not wish on an enemy.
I’m sorry you’ve experienced a hard childhood with an ill parent! Sadly, mental health diseases were, and still are stigmatized. Too many people fall through a needed system of getting treatment, and for a variety of reasons. As a mid-aged woman who was struck down with Panic Disorder then Major Depression, I did not have good medications, nor well regarded care; Not all treating practitioners are good. I suffered greatly, and my two pregnancies were difficult, especially postpartum. I, personally would not have had children knowing the hereditary these illnesses can become. I’m great full for my children, and now Great Grandchildren.
I hope you’re doing well in your life.
You are giving me hope for my own chances of motherhood. If you can manage, I can! :)
If you're living with mental illness, you'll definitely need to keep your support system close. I'm expecting my fifth baby at the moment, and have dealt with Bipolar I through my first 3 before worsening and being diagnosed with Schizoaffective Disorder. My fourth thankfully wasn't any different despite the more severe disorder, and I'm hoping that #5 doesnt throw me any new curve balls after arrival, but my support system has made things much easier so I dont think that any hurdle will be too great to overcome. Motherhood is all I ever really wanted, so it's even though things get really tough at times, my kids are my world, and that greatest stressor is also the source of my greatest strength. If you are ever blessed with the gift of motherhood, it will be a much sweeter gift for you having had to brave the trials and tribulations of mental illness!
@@Pressity1 today I saw a person totally out of his mind, probably the family does not know where that person is. what to do when we meet people in these conditions.
R.L. thanks for your messaging,Im also reading the comments and your comment gave me hope,that somebody else also has hope about future and reading the message,also somebody also has plans same like this video...also somebody also thinking like me....same I've lots of dreams sbout my daughter....
@@Pressity1 Are you chikdren doing ok?..what do u mean,?
@@Pressity1 Are your children free from sczophernia?
This video will stand as an example of how you have tried your absolute best for your son. Please do not feel shame about needing medication, the love of your baby is apparent to everyone.
Never apologize for being a freshly baked parent! Do videos when you have time and energy. An CONGRATULATIONS to a sweet little kid.
Wow, was not expecting any videos for a while. You look amazing and Theodore/Teddy is adorable. 🍾Congratulations to you both 🥂
I love watching your videos. As someone with schizophrenia as well, you offer a lot of educated insight on the illness. I don't personally know anyone else with the disorder so it's a breath of fresh air to see and hear from someone who is so well integrated into life and hear their struggles. It makes me feel more normal and comfortable with myself.
Bless you, Deanne - 👍💕
Thank you so much for sharing so much of your life. My son has schizophrenia, and the way you talk about your experiences and how you handle them gives me so much hope for my son. You’re so honest about the good and the challenges. It helps me have perspective that life is full of challenges, and that those challenges can be managed with love and teamwork. I love that you give your unvarnished truth, and it’s not the end of the world. I have hope that my son can find a loving, supportive and understanding partner. Congratulations to your family on the birth of little Teddy! You deserve all the happiness.
What a beautiful comment. ♥️
SHRIEKED OUT LOUD WHEN I SAW THE THUMBNAIL!!!!!!!!!! im in isolation for covid rn and its been scary, but this just made my day :')
Congratulations! ❤ I've silently followed you. I am adopted. My biological mom suffers from unmedicated Schizophrenia. I met her when I was 21. My true parent's took me to meet her. I was suffering with some medical issues so I needed my family medical history. Once I knew of my biological mom's history I got sterilized. I realize this isn't for everyone. I love this couple! I pray that they thrive with love and compassion..
Congatulations! Thank you for beeing so responsibile to get sterilized! YOU are a hero!
I am so glad with your decision! ❤
Very smart decision!!! No way would I get pregnant if I had this mental illness, and subject my unborn baby to it or the medication they have to take. Not sure why anyone would....
@@chewar7537some of the medications don't cause congenital birth defects. Am pregnant right now and have Schizoaffective disorder, not sure why it's so bad, if I'm successful and stable?
You were very smart and responsible to get sterilized. There is a strong possibility that women and men with schizophrenia can pass on psychiatric problems to their children. You only have to look at the case of Marilyn Monroe's mother, who suffered from a bad case of schizophrenia and who herself had a mother with serious psychiatric problems. Towards the end of her life Marilyn suffered from psychotic symptoms, such as voices in her head, and was prescribed anti-psychotics.
I don’t have schizophrenia - but I have depression, anxiety, and autism spectrum disorder. I’m scared about managing my medications and mood when I become pregnant and have a baby. This video was so helpful! Congratulations! I hope you are doing well 💕
I'm so glad you want to! So many people with mental illnesses refuse to have children which is sad. I think you'll be great!
I was diagnosed with schizophrenia in 2015. I dont experience voices or hallucinations but I am aware of how stress can trigger psychosis. For that reason, I lead a chilled life! Thank you for your videos and congratulations xxx
What is psychosis ?
Schizophrenia has a strong genetic link, but people are going to do what they do and procreating is a strong drive for many. My husband's best friend from childhood's mother was schizophrenic. She was in and out of mental hospitals throughout his childhood. After his parents divorced, his friend lived with his dad. He was always concerned that he would have schizophrenia because of his mom's genes. At 22 he had his first psychotic break. He still managed to get a doctorate in English and taught at a major ouniversity. Sadly, he had another psychotic break in his 30's and disappeared. His body was found in an inlet a few days later. He was brilliant and kind and we will always miss him.
Congratulations and Theodore is a cute 👶. Lots of love and blessings to Theodore
@Virginia Valentine Ira is his middle name
@Virginia Valentine 😇 its Theodore
You’re glowing. You look so happy! Congratulations to you both. He is absolutely beautiful!
I am currently pregnant myself and staying medicated and this video made me feel a lot better about my decision. I hope that is ok to say. I just really found this video inspiring as a person struggling with mental illness and going through pregnancy.
Our,Ate you suffered from sczophernia?....Are you taking medications?
@@aaymathebest4705 ocd,bipolar 2 and generalized anxiety disorder.
Hi. What medication are you using in your pregnancy?
@@elizamorarescu7542 gabapentin,prozac and i was using trazadone early in the pregnancy. i am wanting to make some changes after baby is born.
Hi, so you got pregnant while being on the medications?
I think you are so intelligent beautiful and an ace mother,beautiful baby and not forgetting your partner.the 3of you make a beautiful family.sending the 3 of you so much love.
I have schizophrenia and I know I'm going to be a great parent. I'm getting all the right treatment and I'm recovering well. This gives me hope for when I have a baby :)
I really appreciate this video. I want to have a baby in a couple of years but I have a lot of anxiety about going off my meds (for anxiety and OCD). This gives me hope that I will be ok. Thanks Lauren ❤️ and congratulations!
I have anxiety ocd and an undiagnosed phycosis disorder
She stayed on her meds I think
I was diagnosed at age 11 with ocd, GAD, Panic Disorder and ADD. I have 3 kids and not one did I have to stop my medications and all 3 of my pregnancies and kids are perfectly fine. Finding a good ONGYN is very important.
@@stayathomecichlidmom3579 really? im struggling with gad and depression aand always thought having children is selfish because i dont want them to suffer like me. Seeing this gives me hope
@@stayathomecichlidmom3579 hi,Your comment is also helpful for lots of mothers,especially if somebody daughter is diagnosed currently with sczophernia...can you tell ,all your problems are different from sczophernia,or,are they same like sczophernia?
This video felt so quiet, peaceful, and beautiful. You said that you have had some struggles along the way, but it sounds like everything has gone as well as it could. I’m really emotional at how happy I am for you. You and Theodore are beautiful. Enjoy every moment that you can and continue to stay safe 💙
Your Canadian accent is showing and I love it. (Mississauga girl here). Thank you for sharing your story. Big congrats to you!! she's such a sweetie
God bless you and your little family. He is beautiful. This channel is so helpful, and hopeful for so many. Prayers for getting your sleep schedule back soon!
He is adorable!! I started watching you because my niece, now 56 years old has schizophrenia. I'm 64 years old and I've noticed odd things from her since she was about 9 or 10 years old, if not younger. She is brilliant, never had any issues in school so I guess that is one reason her problem got missed. She has a 36 year old daughter. I think her daughter was what kept her as "normal" as she could have been, but as her daughter became older and ready to go to college, my niece her mom, became worse. She became homeless during that period of time. My sister, didn't know what was going on with her. She was really mean to my sister. Finally, my sister got her help...but they only gave her meds for her problem, which didn't make her feel well...so she would use drugs too. Right now, since the death of her dad, she is homeless again, refusing to take her meds at all. I can say, I don't think she is taking "street drugs" but her schizophrenia is really out of control. All I can do is pray for her. No one can make her take her meds, not even her daughter. I just needed to say this. I am so happy for you that you are coping well with your disease. I'm so glad you took care of it early. I wish you well with your little boy, as I said, he is ADORABLE!!
I'm so happy for you, you are beautiful, your son is beautiful, you are helping me a lot. My daughter is diagnosed with schizophrenia, now she is 23. I'm so proud of her and of you. Bye lovely and thank you
Love your channel! My father had schizoaffective disorder and other co-occurring disorders and was the most loving, amazing father. You got this!
Omg!!! I'm so happy for you all!!! Sending a lot off love ❤️
What a wonderful role model you and Rob are for your kids in teaching them how to value mental health and balancing all the demands of life while staying well, or well-ish.
Congratulations! Little Teddy is such a beautiful baby, and you a beautiful mom. There’s an Italian saying about parenthood “The days are long, the years are short.” It does go fast - treasure as much of it as you can. ☺️
I thank God that you had the insight to recognize the hallucinations Lauren. You amaze me too, you don't seem to let SZ change your life much. It has changed mine a lot.
My grandmother had untreated schizophrenia. She wouldn't allow my dad to come into the house unless he took all his clothes off because she thought the dirt from outside would poison her. He spent most of his childhood sleeping in the garage because he got sick of having to strip down all the time.
YOUR beautiful child looks so well loved and cared for and I know you're doing an amazing job. :)
I think having a child when you are schizophrenic is the most cruel and selfish thing a woman can do .
@@123zigzag1231 Clearly it depends on the situation. I don't know that it's that black and white.
The level of care, integrity, mindfulness, awareness, & how you manage your reality, is so vital & it shows in how you managed your mental illness during pregnancy & birth, including to discuss & communicate areas with your doctor & partner. & To be very careful with your medications.
As well as to work on managing stress & overwhelm & other areas.
You are managing your realities so responsibly & carefully.
& That is so empowering, beautiful, & wonderful to see
This gives me hope , living with treatment resistant MDD , PDD & PTSD , I feel like I’m never going to be ready to be a mum, or be in a proper relationship. But seeing this , gives me some light at the end of the tunnel! Thank you & congratulations! He’s beautiful ☺️
Motherhood is hard but having a mental illness and being a mother is 1 million times harder. I have major depressive disorder and PTSD and I have two children. Honestly I wish I would’ve got into therapy sooner and really worked on myself before having children but I was such a young mother. After my second I really went downhill and my dad died of alcoholism. I’m not trying to share my story to scare anybody but I just want people to be aware that what you see on TH-cam and these TH-cam moms especially with mental illness is not what you’re really getting. I was hospitalized for my PTSD after my dad died and my youngest was about 14 months old. I commend her for sharing her story but please know that being a mother with mental illness is not for the faint of heart please take care of yourself first before trying to bring another human into this world. I never planned on taking a turn for the worst but it happened
There's history of schizophrenia in my family and it's a huge reason I don't think I should have children. It's such a huge risk to pass this on to your children. I wish you and your fiancé and children all the absolute best and luck to live happy healthy stable lives.
Yep. My husband's friend's mom was schizophrenic. He had a rough childhood because she was in the hospital a lot. After his parents divorced, his dad raised him. He knew schizophrenia is genetic and he was terrified he would start showing symptoms. He had his first psychotic break at 22. It is such a serious and at times debilitating disorder. I wouldn't risk passing it on if it ran in my family either. I hope researchers will find a cure or at least develop more medicines to treat it better.
@@mygirldarby given that they don't really know how the current medicines work to get the results they do and why they affect patients so differently I think we're unfortunately a long way off from getting new meds for people with schizophrenia. But hopefully someone will stumble across something that will work for people with schizophrenia that has fewer side effects.
@@mygirldarby I’m praying too. They need more research. My brother had it and he overdosed on drugs at 29. Still hurts every day
You all are sending a bad message to everyone living with mental illnesses. You can live life with a mental illness, you can have children too, as long as you treat it properly. Just because you all have given up on life don't assume everyone else has to
@@idk-jy6cc It's a horrible burden to potentially pass on and I think disregarding that is irresponsible
I will not be going anywhere, please enjoy this precious time with your family and try not to worry about the upload schedule :)!! I am so happy for you, and Teddy is sosososososososo cute. Also, I feel you handled this so well. I am proud of you!
He is so precious and beautiful! Congratulations and thank you for always being so open and sharing your story.
I have several severe chronic health issues that means I have to stay medicated 24/7. Being pregnant was really hard and most people don’t understand that not everyone has the option to “just stop”. My anxiety that had been well controlled soared through the roof and with every panic attack I had, I would feel this terrible guilt that my anxiety was going to terribly affect my baby.
I love my son with every cell in my body but I definitely think I am a one and done Mama 😅
1
It is so cool to have someone help educate that people WITH schizophrenia are regular people with a medical disorder. These medical disorders require medication. And sometimes that is a trade-off. As it would be for all of us. Mental feelings can affect the baby inside -- so it is a trade-off -- the medications end up being all-in-all a positive. Grateful we live in a time when these miracles are possible. God bless you for your love that shines through.
Your so strong congrats
By asking this, I don't mean to offend.
I just heard from my psychiatrist that schizoaffective disorder is genetic, so I should not have a baby in future(if ever had a partner) bc It would cause my baby to be schizoaffective or some sort of psychotic/mood disorders In their teenages or adulthood.
Have you been said that? How do you know your child will stay healthy and did not get your genes of psychotic?
@@cliffpinchon2832 I prefer her to response to my questions.
You look so natural with that bundle of joy Lauren. Thank you for showing it is possible to live alongside mental illness and to live a full life. Much love to your family 🥰💓
Teddy is the most adorable little angel. He’s so lucky to be born into such a loving family. 🙏🏻❤️
Congratulations! My son has 2 children and he's a great dad. I'm so happy for you.
Lauren! not only are you glowing, you’re so emotive with your face and voice here ♥️ I have schizoaffective and a two year old, and having a baby can be really hard, especially w the sleep disturbances. we all support you ♥️ I hope everything goes well for you, Rob and the lil one!
I'm schizophrenic too and I wish to have a baby. May I ask. Did you have schizophrenic relapse episode when you took care of your baby as he was under 2 years old? Thank you
Seeing you and your son in this video just made my day! I'm so happy for you, Rob, Teddy and your other two children. In addition, your sharing of this video, as well as all the others, is such a benefit to those who are living with a mental illness and for those of us who have a loved one who is. Thank you!
He is precious! Yep, camp out in bed. Rest, relax, enjoy your little guy. 💕 I am glad you have great support!
I started almost bawling when you said "I am so in love. We are so in love. The kids are so in love." I was really giving you my every attention but in the background I just kept thinking how amazing and totally in love with your little one you looked. Rob is every bit as awesome as you but understand you just built an entire human being - in your tummy, right next to your heart ("to keep your little one warm and loved" my mom use to say.) You did the hardest possible thing even under the best of circumstances - and your love for that lil bean is what makes you a superhero in my mind. I can imagine Rob just soaking in the glow of love and appreciation and dedication on your face just looking at little Mr. Teddy Ira. What a beautiful amazing little sweet baby you've gifted all of us "meeting." What a beautiful amazing little person you've added to your family. What a blessing it must be for you all to have each other
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. I can't imagine navigating pregnancy with the decisions that you had to make but I also couldn't imagine that being done by anyone better than you two, either. Please do everything that is best for you all right now, every second of energy is precious as you know (that does get better hehe!) Take as much time, as much sunshine, fluffy pillows, pajama and pizza nights, and recovery time as you need. I can see so much of both of you in his precious face.
Congrats on your new addition guys 😍💜
Congratulations Lauren and Rob! This topic is so needed, pregnancy and medications. Thanks for covering this!
Wow!! Congratulations!! He is a spitting image of hubby! And btw Lauren, you are positively glowing with new motherhood. Shout out to your psychiatrist for seeing you safely through the pregnancy!🎉🎊💙
I'm so proud of your journey! We may be strangers, but your strength is so inspiring! Our minds can be so scary at times and you handle it with grace and acceptance. I have OCD woth intrusive thoughts and I've struggled so much. You have helped my mindset so much!! I'm so thankful for you and Rob and that y'all share your journey!
I feel like I can feel the love between you and Teddy through the screen! Congratulations to you and your family!
Congratulations to you and Rob for your beautiful baby your going to be a great mother you already am I can tell you love him so much I am also a schizophrenic parent of 4 boys it gets rough at time but the love you experience for your children is such a terrific gift and everyday a blessing with them from God I'll be praying for you please pray for me and God bless you all
I don't think I've ever seen you so at peace and content! Motherhood definitely suits you! Congratulations he gorgeous!
congratulations you two - you deserve all the happiness in the world! Your content is so valuable and I appreciate your openness and honesty. Take care xx
I'm so glad to hear you are doing well. You truly are an inspiration. My son is diagnosed with schizophrenia. He is going through a very difficult time. Currently in the hospital dealing with psychosis. He has no insite on his own illness. You give me hope . It's such a devastating illness. You are such a fighter !!!
I'm sorry mama!!!! I pray for your son ❤❤ my heart is with you!!
Welcome baby Theodore! You are so kind to continue sharing with the community! You are an amazing woman! Seeing those early day newborn snuggles brings back a lot of memories : )
Thank you so much for your videos. I am schizophrenic and I'm 26 and I just found out I'm 5 weeks pregnant
I'm schizophrenic too and I wish to have a baby. May I ask. Did you give a birth? Did you have schizophrenic relapse episode when you took care of your baby? Thank you
So sweet! Congratulations 🎊🍾🎉🎈
All the health in the world to your new addition! Congrats!
How did you navigate the considerations about the heritibility of mental illness? I've always felt like I don't want to have a kid because I don't want my kid to suffer from the same things I suffer from. Are there strategies you plan to use to help safeguard your child from the possibility of developing mental ilnesses?
No. She obviously does not care or she would not have that poor kid. Her kid is geneticly at extreme risk of developing area of mental ilnesses...
It was weird, when I went through my pregnancy I decided to get off all my mental health meds, this was 5 years ago, I was afraid any would have been too strong, but the odd thing was I was feeling great mentally up untill a month after I gave birth, I started having episodes again. But after 5 years passed Im doing well all but some anxiety and just taking a shot each month for schizophrenia. Thanks for sharing your experiences and I will continue to watch and support your channel. Have peace, love and hope.
Congratulations! It's great to see you can live with the illness and you can get a family. Inspiring.
Congratulations on the birth of Theodore. He is so precious. You are truly inspiring.
you are an amazing mother🥺 i wish you guys the best
Congratulations on your healthy Theodore. I hope that he brings you joy and happiness. I hope that he becomes successful. I hope that he lives a long and healthy life.
Do not have another one. From experience each makes the mental health worse
But more importantly the children suffer. Put all your effort into him until he's at least 10.
Or at least wait at least until he is 5 years old, until he can do most of the things alone! Exemple : sleep, taking a bath or shower, making toasts or an easy breakfast, tie is shoes, etc. At least wait until he's more independant. Anyway such a great video, with the right kind of help you can get to any mental health disorders. I had anorexia and I recovered completly from it for 3 years already!
Congratulations again! I know often you cannot tell by the looks of a person how they feel, but you smiled a big smile when introducing him, I hope you and your family get much joy from this new addition!
I totally get not being able to "just go off meds", I think you did brilliantly working with your doctors how to navigate the situation. Thank you for speaking so openly, it really helps other people, me included (I have schizoaffective disorder)!
I’m so happy for you!! He’s so beautiful and he looks JUST like you!! I have to say, when he pooped, i smelt it, and i thought to myself, wow, you really have had a lot of children (i have 4). Then I realized my dog shat behind me... when people talk about perfect timing...... that was it.
Awesome Lauren and Rob!! Beautiful baby boy👶!! Lauren looks great, I'm so happy for them.
First one to watch and like, congratulations, sending you a lot of love from France guys!
As someone who has a parent with schizophrenia, not having existing symptoms myself, the thought of children was always on my mind. I understand those who have it or it’s in their genes and decide not to have children, but I will follow you and see if there’s any hope in the future. I wish you and your baby good health and hope everything goes well!
Oh my God, he is sooo beautiful😍!
Teddy looks so content in your arms. What a precious baby. I'm so elated for you and your family! Congratulations!!! ❤️❤️❤️
Also honey--your hubs has done this twice before. LET HIM HELP. Your hormones are going to be putting extra pressure on you to do everything, but you don't have to. I promise. You are doing so amazing now.
This is beautiful. Thank you for sharing your story 🌺 Please don't stop sharing your journey 😭 You and Theodore are so in sync 💜💙
Lauren you have no idea how much you have helped me normalise my illness and made me feel like my journey to becoming a mother a more possible path for me
God bless you and Rob for sharing your story so honestly, there are so many people who will be helped by this! I hope this little one won't give you too many scary moments (at least until he gets his driver's license)!
I’ve been watching your videos for a few weeks now and they’ve helped me so much with understanding how to be there for someone in my life living with Schizophrenia and just being with people in general, really. I imagine you’re encouraging empathy for lots of people with these impressively honest sharings. I know I’m a year late, but congratulations on your baby!!! Thank you for this beautiful work you’re doing and know that I truly wish you and your family all the well-being. ❤️🙏
You are beyond inspiring to me, you are so courageous and I know you are going to be the most amazing mother ❤️
Congratulations on your bundle of joy! You’re doing an amazing job. 👍 Thank your for sharing your journey. May you and baby continue to thrive. 💌
I wish you all the best. Children do not remember their baby days, but they know the years that follow, as the child of parents with unaddressed mental health issues, I know that with the best will in the world, children will suffer. Babies are passive and people empathise but it is the later years when reality hits. You seem to have a good recognition of your situation and I am sure you realise that having the baby is the easy bit, it is raising the adult that is the real challenge. You will raise this new human with much self awareness and compassion.
My dad was diagnosed with schizophrenia and OCD a few years ago, at the age of 42. At his age it was really hard to swallow i guess, considering he had symptoms for over 15 years, but never talked about it or showed us any sign of it until it got really severe enough to think about s**c*de. We also learned he had childhood traumas and that’s where some of his strange behaviors came from. A lot of bad things have happened during and after the first months of his diagnosis, but eventually now it’s better. He feels a lot safer and happy now, you wouldn’t even be able to tell he is diagnosed if you didn’t know... To all you diagnosed folks, please don’t lose hope and stop taking your meds, never ever, and please love yourself as much as you can.
Btw- Thanks for videos, it really feels better when i see someone with diagnosis feeling good and living to the fullest. I wish you a wonderful life with your family 💖
Congrats to u and ur beautiful family ❤
Congratulations!! You will make such a good mother. Thank you for giving us the education we need to tread this fearlessly. :)
Congrats to you both and to the siblings! You will do an amazing job!
Wishing you all the best . We have a few family members that have bi polar disorder and depression . I can relate to you even though I know your issues are different . I wish people would try to be more compassionate and understanding . ❤️❤️❤️❤️
such an awareness! My sister is schizophrenic and my family doesn't even talk about it!
To say you’re an inspiration is an understatement. Thank you for being so open and honest, it truly is refreshing to see. I wish you all the best❤️❤️
I have schizoaffective disorder and im SO SO scared to have kids i dont want them to have it because of me
I am so happy for you ❤️ and thank you for sharing your story with us 💜 enjoy your bundle of joy 💙 I wish you both happiness and health
Getting sleep was a big concern for me and my psychiatric stability after giving birth. What my husband and I ended up doing was splitting the night so I could get at least 6 hour block of uninterrupted sleep. He slept on a twin bed in the baby's room and I slept in our room from 8-2am. At 2:00 a.m. we switched rooms and he got his opportunity for sleep.
We did something similar too and it was so important for us. When one or even both parents aren't getting sleep it's just a mess. Swapping helps, on weekends one parent gets to sleep in lol.
Same for us. After a really bad PPD after my 1st child, where I had to be hospitalized, we decided to split nights after the 2nd and it really helped. I didn't get PPD the second time around
Congratulations mom and dad. You went into this journey with maturity and honesty. Rest now.
Congratulations to you! You give me hope. I am 30, married, and have multiple mental illnesses that I struggle so much to cope with daily, while trying to just function doing basic things. I've always worried if I'd be able to "handle" having kids, and wondered how others with mental illnesses do it while struggling to just maintain their own mental health. It's caused so much fear lately knowing "the clock's ticking." You are an inspiration!
Welcome Theodore !! I'm so happy you are here. You are very loved. So sweet!!
You might want to check the side effects of your medications.
You don’t think Lauren knows the side effects of her medications? Why would you say this?
Congratulations to your beautiful family of 5 - Teddy is just perfect. You look amazing mama! Enjoy this time and soak one another up. Sending you all of my love and best wishes for your sweet son. 💖🙏
Please I would like to know which medication you were taking and which dose. And were you taking it the whole pregnancy? Also in the first trimester?
I'd like to know too!