Coping with Infertility and Perinatal Mental Health This Holiday Season
The holiday season, often filled with cheer and togetherness, can be especially challenging for those coping with infertility or perinatal mental health struggles such as postpartum depression or anxiety. For many, the focus on family, children, and pregnancy announcements can amplify feelings of grief, isolation, and loss. If you’re noticing any of these feelings arise this season, it’s important to prioritize your mental health and well-being.
First and foremost, it’s crucial to acknowledge your emotions — whatever they may be. When experiencing infertility or adjusting to the changes of postpartum life, it’s normal to experience a wide range of feelings. You might feel sadness or frustration or a mix of emotions. It’s okay to let yourself feel without judgment. Recognizing these emotions can be an important step.
Setting boundaries is another important strategy for coping during the holidays. You do not need to attend family gatherings or festive events if it’s painful. It’s okay to decline invitations or limit your time in environments that may be emotionally overwhelming. Protecting your mental health often means creating space for yourself, and that can look different depending on where you are in your journey.
Anticipate and Rehearse — While we can’t always anticipate what people might ask or say, it’s okay to be aware of potential triggers and anticipate hard moments. If there is a hard moment, it is helpful to rehearse how you can support yourself or lean on your people for support in the moment.
Finding your support system or seeking support is also vital, especially when experiencing infertility or postpartum mental health challenges. Connecting with a therapist or joining a support group can provide a space to process your emotions and share experiences with others who understand. You are not alone, and there are people who can offer guidance and comfort during this time.
Finally, offer yourself self-compassion. The holidays can be a challenging time and that’s okay. If you’re struggling, be gentle with yourself. Whether you’re still navigating infertility treatments or adjusting to life after childbirth, remember that you are important. Take things one day at a time, and give yourself credit for the courage it takes to keep going.
Ultimately, the holidays don’t have to look the same for everyone. By prioritizing your mental health and setting boundaries that protect your well-being, you can navigate this season with more peace and resilience. Kindly see below for additional support and resources: