Hi.
Yes, the breathing thing could be anxiety. When I was at my worst, it seemed like I couldn't take a deep breath in, almost like I'd acquired asthma or something. Which I've never had my whole life, but now realise it was anxiety.
You will feel low until your levels get back up, it's the lack of them that's making you feel like it. Just keep telling yourself that, it's hormones, nothing more!
The forgetfulness, and confusion is normal too, I couldn't focus on much and everything was too much for me, as for the weight gain, I think I've gained a few pounds all in all, but when we've been through what we've been through, it seems the last thing to worry about, you can always try and sort that out when you feeling better. Try and eat sensible, not eating properly makes anxiety worse, I've found that out.
There's no need to feel stupid either, no way should you, please don't. There's nothing stupid about how these pesky hormones makes us feel. it's horrendous!
Stick the patch on, and see how you go. Good luck.
Keep posting and asking questions, no one judges on here, we?re all here to help if we can.
Xxxxxxxx