The Holiday Blues
Contributed by Mindy Berkson
For those struggling with fertility issues, don’t despair. Thoughtful planning can help reduce stress and sadness and ensure the holiday season is a more joyous one. Following is a look at coping strategies for infertile couples on how to navigate the holiday season and make it a bit more merry and bright.
Do what feels right for you
It’s OK to be selective when it comes to holiday gatherings. Remember — you don’t always have to say yes. Give yourself permission to avoid holiday activities with extended family that may be too painful. Don’t be afraid to gracefully decline invitations where there will be lots of babies or pregnant women present.
Make it a team effort
Be on the same page with your partner when it comes to talking about your infertility. Plan ahead on how you’ll respond to uninvited questions and always remember — it’s up to you whether or not to discuss your fertility issues. Don’t feel the need to make excuses. “No, we don’t have children,” is a perfectly acceptable and sufficient response.
Keep the faith
Find hope in the coming of the new year and vow to be proactive. Consider enlisting the help of a fertility consultant who can help you determine the best plan for building your family and develop a team of unbiased professionals to lead you on the right path. Retaining a sense of control and staying positive will help keep those holiday spirits up.
Seek support
There’s no need to hide your sorrow or carry the burden alone, especially around the holidays. Let other people in. Talk to family and friends about how you are feeling and be direct about asking for what you need. Time alone? A shoulder to cry on? A kid-free holiday date? Try to avoid isolating yourself from those who care.
Branch out
If family festivities are too much this year, fill your holiday schedule with plans with other couples and friends who don’t have kids. Be sure to stay in touch with other infertile friends and if you know of others who are experiencing similar feelings, make a connection. Reminding yourself that you are not alone always helps.
Give back
Making a positive difference in your community can be the perfect remedy. Find local volunteer opportunities, such as working at a soup kitchen or with refugees spending this holiday season alone. Consider buying holiday gifts for a needy family. Remembering the less fortunate at this time will remind you that others are suffering too, and will put your pain in perspective.
Above all, remember to be patient and kind to yourself this holiday season. Stress will never positively affect the outcome. Remaining optimistic while being prepared to continue your fertility journey in the coming new year will remind you to stay focused on what’s most important — preparing to welcome a child home.
About the author
Mindy Berkson, founder of Lotus Blossom Consulting, has more than a decade of experience in the infertility field. As one of the first infertility consultancies in the United States, Lotus Blossom Consulting, LLC was founded to arm patients with information and education to make the best medical choices. Mindy has guided hundreds of intended parents all around the world through the stressful demands of the infertility process by providing professional and compassionate assistance in dealing with the emotional, physical and financial barriers involved with navigating the fertility journey. For more information, please visit www.LotusBlossomConsulting.com.
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