Struggling with infertility is difficult enough without the added stress of seeing your friends and peers announcing pregnancies. However difficult it may seem though your journey is unique and having some tips and techniques up your sleeve can help alleviate the strain.
If you’re struggling with infertility and perhaps pursuing an IVF journey it can feel like everyone around you is announcing they’re pregnant while you’re not. Although you want to be happy for the couples you see filled with you it’s like a mirror reflecting back on what you don’t yet have.
Infertility is a difficult and complex issue so of course it’s natural for you to focus on it and then also focus on other people’s pregnancy journeys. However focusing on these issues will only make them grow in your mind. Know that everything you’re going through is normal and you’re not alone.
It’s Ok To Feel Bad
Trying to feel excitement and happiness for your friends around you who are getting pregnant can be extremely difficult, and not feeling joy for them can make you resent yourself. But your emotions are valid and deserve to be acknowledged. If attending a baby shower is going to make you feel worse, then it’s ok not to go! Let yourself off the hook.
Remember, no one can make you feel guilty for feeling what you’re feeling – only you can do that. Be kind to yourself and prioritise your own self-care and wellness during this difficult time. Take time for yourself and engage in activities that make you feel good. It’s important to have compassion for yourself and allow yourself to grieve or be angry without judgement.
Don’t Compare Yourself To Others
It can be hard to stay positive when you’re dealing with the heartbreak of infertility. But it’s important to remember that everyone is on their own unique journey and there is no “right” way to experience life. Everyone has different paths they need to take, and while infertility may seem like an insurmountable obstacle, it doesn’t mean that you won’t get your happy ending. You just may have to wait a bit longer for it.
In the meantime, focus on what else is going well in your life; things that you can still celebrate and be thankful for even if they aren’t directly related to infertility. Take time to appreciate the smaller pleasures in life and try your best to find joy in each moment, no matter how small. You can also lean on your friends or family for support if you need it.
Most of all, remind yourself that things will work out in their own time – even if it’s not the way you originally planned – and that you are strong enough to get through this.
Find A Supportive Network
Having a psychologist that offers compassion and understanding is one of the most important factors when considering your options for fertility treatments. They should be equipped to provide you with guidance and advice throughout the process, offering support during times of distress and helping you to understand your options. It’s important to find someone you feel comfortable talking to openly about any worries, doubts or questions you may have.
Happy Minds Psychology can serve as an invaluable resource during your journey to conceive. They can provide counselling on the psychological and emotional aspects of infertility, helping you cope with depression, anxiety and low self-esteem often associated with this journey.
Happy Minds Psychology in Geelong and the Bellarine are a clinic dedicated to women’s mental health through supporting and empowering you to tackle life’s challenges together.