Sunny personality turns dark in the wake of a miscarriage

DEAR ABBY: My husband and I suffered a miscarriage five months ago, in the 12th week. I’m still not doing well. I have put on a facade to get by, but I’m just starting to realize how deeply this is affecting my life.

I used to be a happy, friendly person. Always a smile on my face and laughter to be shared and hugs for my loved ones. Since the miscarriage, I put on a fake smile and try to be who I once was, but I can’t keep doing it. Every day there is a moment from that day or the aftermath that floods my mind. I’m angry, bitter, mad at the unfairness, and I no longer have compassion or sympathy for others.

This isn’t me. I don’t want to be this way. My happiness has been replaced with tears and sadness. The hopefulness is replaced by emptiness. I’m very lost, and I don’t know how to get out of this

by Bigar

(March 21-April 19): Today accents your home and family. Discussions revolve around home improvements and decisions about your residence. Visitors suggest interesting ideas and offer valuable insights during casual conversation. Tonight: Prepare a house blessing and do a sage smudge with a family member.

(April 20-May 20): The pace is fast and somewhat hectic today and promises an interesting schedule punctuated by numerous messages and outings. The secret to juggling several ongoing projects successfully is organization. Tonight: Stay informed. Different news will provide valuable perspectives and insights.

(May 21-June 20): Prepare for a financial roller coaster ride. Family members will require help and extra assistance. Look for ways to reduce expenses related to housing. Don’t overextend yourself financially. Set funds aside to cover an unexpected expense. Tonight: A financial brainstorming session.

(June 21-July 22): This is a great day to plan a journey, either for business or for pleasure. Career prospects are brighter. Heed suggestions offered by others. Communication with loved ones is pleasant and easy. You’re the center of attention now. Tonight: All eyes are on you.

(July 23-Aug. 22): You will relish peace and privacy today. Examine the past if you would know the future. During meditation you might be inspired to pursue charitable work and a volunteer opportunity. Satisfaction comes from helping those in need. Tonight: An early night’s sleep.

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Today brings supportive friendships your way. Seek a mentor to help you select worthwhile goals. You are seeking guidance for practical help in resolving problems. You receive an invitation to join a prestigious club or organization. Tonight: Discuss with old colleagues.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Today brings pleasant opportunities to combine business with pleasure. Ask co-workers for ideas and assistance. Others have plans in mind that involve you. Maintain goodwill by cooperating and consulting. Tonight: Your source of income goes through a shift. Be adaptable and economize.

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Today turns your attention toward distant shores and imported items. You’ll tire of all that has become comfortable and familiar. A blockage that has hampered your progress melts away. A goal is about to materialize. Tonight: Catch up with friends far away.

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Today emphasizes your casual friendships and career prospects. Deep roots related to old times are stirring. Make the best of the situation and funk.

I no longer want to try to get pregnant again because the fear of the physical and emotional pain of another miscarriage has me paralyzed. Any advice you might give would be greatly appreciated. – BROKEN IN MISSOURI

DEAR BROKEN: Please accept my sympathy for the loss of your child. Your depression and the fear you have about another pregnancy are not unusual after a tragedy like the one you have experienced. You are grieving, and the emotions you are feeling are to be expected.

Please schedule an appointment with your OB/GYN and tell your doctor about all of these feelings, because the doctor can refer you to someone who can help you work through this. It will take time, but I assure you it is doable.

Astrology

enjoy the moment. Postpone taking on new projects, as they could overwhelm you. Tonight: Intimacy in a relationship -- pleasure or business -- deepens.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Teamwork, compromise and flexibility are important today. Partners have strong feelings concerning plans and ideas they wish to discuss with you. You make an important commitment. A sense of completion and freedom surrounds you. Tonight: Listen to some of your very favorite music.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Listen carefully. Casual conversations or broadcasts about health overheard coincidentally offer useful information. Keep up with regular medical checkups. Make an appointment today if there is something overdue. Tonight: Decisions might fall on you. Let others run the show.

(Feb. 19-March 20): Today emphasizes a nurturing and meaningful relationship. Share time outdoors with the one you covet. This promises twists and turns for the better in your relationship. Sudden meetings and partings also play a part in today’s drama. Tonight: A relaxing soak in an herbal bath.