Conceiving Hope: Navigating Mental Health During Infertility
Infertility is deeply personal to me. As someone who has navigated years of infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss, and as a therapist helping others through similar struggles, I understand the overwhelming impact it can have on your life. It consumes your thoughts, strains your relationships, and triggers a rollercoaster of emotions from despair to hope.
I've heard my clients express sentiments like, "My body is broken" or " Maybe I'm just not meant to be a mom," echoing the same doubts and fears I once faced myself. Infertility isn't just a setback; it's a disease that can profoundly affect one’s mental health and connections with others.
Photo: Mediflam.com
With 1 in 6 people globally impacted by infertility (World Health Organization, 2023), awareness is crucial. As we mark National Infertility Awareness Month, let's shine a light on the toll it can take on someone diagnosed with this disease:
Social Isolation: Gatherings can become painful reminders of what you don't have, which can lead to isolation and worsening feelings of sadness and loneliness.
Loss of Identity: Infertility can challenge your sense of self-worth, leading to feelings of inadequacy or loss of purpose.
Emotional Distress: The uncertainty and lack of control that many feel with infertility have the potential to fuel anxiety and depression, especially for those with a history of mental health issues.
Relationship Stress: Infertility may strain intimacy and communication, potentially leading to conflict and resentment between partners.
Grief and Loss: The pain of infertility often goes unrecognized in our society, leaving individuals to mourn in silence.
If you're struggling, consider these tips to protect your mental health:
Lean on Loved Ones: Seek support from those who uplift you and set boundaries with those who don't. If you are unsure of how to talk to your loved ones about this, here are some great communication tips.
Join a Support Group: Connect with others facing similar challenges, finding solace in shared experiences. This can seem daunting, but know that even sitting in silence and hearing the stories of others can help reduce shame and provide comfort. Join a Resolve support group or, if you are already in the midst of fertility treatments, ask your clinic about support group options they may offer.
Seek Therapy: Process your emotions with a compassionate therapist who can provide a safe space for healing. Some helpful places to start are Resolve, Psychology Today, or reach out to Women's Therapy & Wellness if you live in Virginia or Washington, D.C.
Work With a Doctor You Trust: Not everyone with infertility wants to move right into working with a Reproductive Endocrinologist (and some never have to) but finding a medical professional who you trust is so important. Work with medical professionals who validate your concerns and offer knowledgeable support.
Nurture Yourself & Your Relationship: Prioritize self-care and quality time with your partner if you have one, remembering that both your relationship with yourself and with your partner deserve care and attention.
April serves as a reminder that you're not alone in this journey. Organizations like Resolve offer support and resources, while events like the Walk of Hope provide a sense of community and solidarity.
In honor of Infertility Awareness Month, Women’s Therapy & Wellness hosted a Walk of Hope on April 28th in Alexandria. Your path to parenthood may be challenging, but there is hope, support, and love along the way. Follow Women’s Therapy & Wellness on Instagram and we hope to see you at the next one!