Coping strategies and support
“Why me?”
You may have asked yourself this with a heavy heart whilst learning of your fertility challenges. It’s okay to wonder, and to seek solace in shared vulnerability. We at Coastal Conception are a community that understands, empathises and walks alongside you on this path. We offer a safe space where your emotions can find validation and we can help to nurture your wellbeing.
We’d like to walk you through some of the steps that may be beneficial on your fertility journey to allow you to process and experience the emotions that come with the challenges of infertility.
Acknowledge your feelings
You are allowed to grieve and experience the emotions that come with grief. There may be denial that this is happening to you; anger and frustration, or even resentment toward family and friends. You may seek solutions in any suggestions given to you in the hopes of a positive outcome and you may experience sadness, isolation and feelings of loss. Everything you are feeling is valid and dare we say ‘normal’.
Give yourself permission to experience your emotions and create a safe space to allow this process.
Seek support
Connecting with others who may understand your struggles can relieve stress and provide perspective. Consider sharing your feelings with friends and family, or consider participating in support groups. These communities offer empathy, understanding and a sense of belonging.
If you have a partner, communicate effectively and discuss your feelings with your partner. Remember that both of you are navigating this journey together.
Set boundaries
It’s okay to decline invitations or to avoid certain topics when you feel you need to. Try to prioritise your own self-care and establish boundaries around your time, energy and emotional well-being.
It can be useful to limit the time you spend researching fertility conditions and treatments so you avoid becoming overwhelmed with information. Only choose reliable sources and avoid spending too much time online.
Focus of what you can control
Concentrate on the aspects within your control whether that is lifestyle choices, stress management or seeking professional advice. You could consider nutrition, exercise and relaxation techniques that will positively impact your overall health.
Self-care
We believe one of the most important things you can do is to look after yourself and your overall well-being. This includes: maintaining a balanced diet with regular meals to help stabilise your blood sugar levels; partaking in regular physical activity - this also helps to relieve stress and tension and could be used as a time for meditation and visualisation; and deep breathing practices to stay calm during anxious moments.
Coping strategies are individual and deeply personal and what works for one person may not work for another. Be compassionate and patient with yourself. Surround yourself with a supportive community and seek professional help if needed. You’re not alone in this journey.
If you’d like to find out more about how we can help to support you, reach out via our contact form or book an appointment with us here.
Thank you
Coastal Conception