If you’re finding it hard to cope with the stress of infertility, know that you are not alone. In this article we’ll provide some tips on how you can manage the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies the fertility journey and why it’s so important to have support along the way.
#1 Focus on the now
We all have dreams and aspirations and this may not be the path you envisaged for yourself when planning your future family. Try to avoid reliving the past and worrying about what is to come. As noted by RMA of New York, “try to stay in the present because it’s the only place you can really choose to behave in ways that can reduce stress and anxiety”.
#2 Be kind to yourself
Infertility isn’t your fault. You’re doing the best you can. Be kind to yourself – get enough sleep, eat well, exercise and carve out time for yourself and with others. Do one thing everyday that brings you joy and that can take your mind off things, even if for a little while.
#3 Acknowledge your feelings
“When you try to ‘snap out of it’, you waste all your energy”, notes RESOLVE. If a good cry will make you feel better, cry; if you need to let out your frustration, go for a run and give yourself space to be angry about the unfairness of the situation. It’s much easier to come to terms with your feelings once you understand them and acknowledge them.
#4 Find your community
You have every right to keep the details of your journey private until you’re ready to share. Once you are ready, sharing what you’re going through and finding support in people who are going through or went through something similar will help you feel more understood and supported. Infertility affects 1 in 8 couples, so you’re definitely not alone.
#5 Limit Social Media
Social media can be a real minefield some days. Unfollow accounts that make you feel bad and consider logging off during the holidays if this makes you feel better.
#6 Nourish your relationship
While you and your partner are experiencing infertility together, it is very possible that you’re each handling the situation differently. Communicate your feelings to each other, and tell your partner how they can help you feel better. Go out on a date night, do the things you loved before infertility – a good break works wonders.
#7 Find professional support
Therapy, as a couple or individually, can help you identify your feelings and move forward in your journey. Infertility often brings up issues that are difficult to navigate alone or that may be hard to tackle as a couple without an outside perspective.
The psychological impact of infertility
Infertility can be difficult. If you’ve been experiencing a loss of interest in usual activities, strained relationships, anxiety, change in your sleep patterns, or profound sadness for a prolonged period of time, seek help from a mental health professional. Finding the right support is imperative on your fertility journey.
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