Going through IVF treatment can take its toll, and perhaps unsurprisingly, there’s a link between coping with your fertility and mental health and well-being. Facing the challenges of IVF can evoke conflicting emotions that can result in a lot of anxiety.
Fertility Network UK’s survey of fertility patients found that the vast majority, 83%, felt sad, frustrated, and worried often or all the time. While 47% had experienced feelings of depression often or all the time.
However, it’s important to understand that there are ways for you to manage any negative emotions before they become too overwhelming. For Mental Health Awareness Week, we’ve put together some suggestions for prioritising your mental health and wellbeing throughout your fertility journey.
Be open with your family and friends
Speaking sincerely and openly to your loved ones and those closest to you is a way of sharing the mental and emotional load of your experience. Only once you’ve started talking about an issue, can you develop a support system around you.
Talking about fertility and mental health also plays an important role in breaking the stigma around the topics. A stigma which only serves to make it more difficult to ask for help.
Join an online support network
Remember you’re not alone. That most fertility patients surveyed by Fertility Network U.K. felt anxious is a huge indicator that many people are going through similar experiences.
Finding, connecting, and sharing your story with people going through a similar experience could improve your mental health, and provide sought-after advice. The quickest and easiest way to find an online support network may be to search Facebook for “fertility support groups”.
Practice relaxation
If you’re feeling anxious or stressed, taking the time to relax could help you refocus and look after yourself. Here are a few ways you can fit relaxation into your day:
- Breathing techniques: Counting as you take deep breaths in and out can help you feel more at ease and comfortable.
- Drawing, painting, crafting: Exploring your creative side will give you time to simply enjoy yourself.
- Visualisation: Closing your eyes and imagining yourself in a serene, peaceful environment lets your mind drift and your body relax.
- Spend time in nature: Going for a walk, particularly in a green space, can be great for your mental health.
You can find more details about relaxation exercises here.
Keep a journal of your fertility and mental health journeys
Writing a journal can give you a space to fully express your thoughts, feelings, hopes, dreams, and stresses. It may also give you the opportunity to delve into the impact of and links between your fertility and mental health. A journal will record your progress, and act as a reminder of how far you’ve come, when times are tough.
Where to find further support for your fertility and mental health
There are many organisations and charities, some specialising in fertility issues, across the UK that provide free mental health support, including:
Fertility Network UK is a leading charity for anyone experiencing fertility problems in the UK. They run several local online support groups.
Mind is a charity that provides advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem.
HFEA provides free and impartial information on UK fertility clinics, IVF, and other types of fertility treatment.
At Access Fertility, we aim to reduce the worries you may have about your fertility journey. If you would like more information about treatment, you can book a free consultation with our fertility nurse. And our friendly team of patient advisors would be happy to explore how we can support you, please get in touch.