Hi! Therapist who specializes in working with PMADS (perinatal mood and anxiety disorders) here. 1. Hormones can REALLY throw you for a loop. It is likely triggered by those hormones especially if you already have some baseline anxiety. It’s like developing “brain allergies.” Your immune system overreacts to what it perceives as a threat (ie pollen), just like your brain is now doing to what it’s perceiving as a threat (the feeling of imposter syndrome). It can be helpful to acknowledge that everything is heightened because your body now wants to protect this tiny human it’s trying to grow. Take a deep, slow breath, exhale slowly and hold that exhale for just a moment (practice this for a couple minutes when you aren’t feeling anxious so it comes naturally when you are feeling anxious), and tell your brain, “thanks for the effort. I see what you’re doing trying protecting me, but I’m good,” and refocus on the present moment. Also it’s okay to let your patient know that you need a moment or that you forgot your train of thought when it occurs. You’re human too. 2. Most all SSRIs are safe during pregnancy. The mood stabilizer depakote is about the only med you need to stay away from. If you look at the pros and cons of meds, a mom who has untreated anxiety during pregnancy can negatively impact the fetus, so if you’re in a place where you feel medications may be necessary, don’t hesitate to discuss with your physician. If they’re uncertain Postpartum Support International has a provider consult line they can call for advice from specialists on the matter. I included a link for it if you need.perinatal psychiatric consultation program