By Elena Clamen, LMHC
The New Year is the time for resolutions. Every year we pledge to do a few things that we hope will help enrich our lives, whether it be: going to the gym, volunteering, or simply spending more time with family and friends. While we know these things are beneficial, realistically we know that it is hard to stick with them for more than a few weeks!
When it comes to infertility and the challenges we face, New Year’s can be a great time to instill a few important, yet easy to keep resolutions that can bring positive intention and help us to cope with the stress and anxiety we all go through. There are many ups and downs associated with infertility, and it is important to have tangible ways to get through the hard times.
Here are a few things to try this year:
Connect With Others on a Similar Journey
There is nothing more powerful and comforting than knowing that someone understands how you are feeling. This year find a way to connect with others going through infertility. Whether an online support group, a peer support group or a professional support group, being part of a community will give you the strength you need to move forward on your journey.
Nourish your Creative Soul
This might look very different for each person, but the important part is that you are doing something that is just for YOU! Whether it be putting together a scrapbook/photo album, keeping a journal, spending time in nature, listening to your favorite music, reading a good book, spending the afternoon at a museum, getting a massage, going to a yoga or meditation class, taking even a little bit of time to do something that nourishes you will go a long way.
Be Kind to Yourself
The infertility journey can be a challenging one, and of the best things you can do is to be kind to yourself. Know that the choices you made in your life were the right ones for you at the time and you are who you are because of those decisions. Making the commitment to be kind to yourself welcomes balance and joy into your life and also invites kindness of others!
To help you remain committed to your New Year’s resolutions along your infertility journey, join one of our many Peer Support Groups throughout the New England region today!
About the Author
Elena Clamen is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor/Expressive Art Therapist in private practice in Arlington, MA. Elena facilitates Primary/Secondary Infertility Support Groups in addition to Individual and Couples Counseling. She is also a member of the RESOLVE New England Board of Directors.