Featured in the RNE Magazine, 2023 Volume 3
By: Katie Aguayo Zweifel, LICSW, PMH-C
Many people facing challenges in growing their family also experience mental health difficulties as a result.
Numerous studies have shown that people who are struggling with fertility and family building challenges have higher rates of depression and anxiety than the general population.
So how do you determine if mental health support would be helpful to you on your family building journey?
- You’re having trouble sleeping or you’re waking up in the middle of the night with anxiety or panic.
- You’re feeling stuck, such as in the process of adoption, fertility treatment cycles, or about what family building options to explore next.
- You need to grieve a loss such as an unsuccessful IVF cycle, pregnancy loss, not being able to have a biological child, or being childless not by choice.
If you’re struggling, I strongly recommend seeking out therapy for support.
However, if you’re in transition to see a therapist (i.e. still looking or on a waitlist) and need mental health support in the meantime, I’ve gathered some things that you can try on your own.