Mental health challenges in involuntary childlessness.

Involuntary childlessness is an emotional roller coaster that impacts both you, your partner, and sometimes your wider circle. Fertility challenges and infertility are more common than many believe; up to 1 in 6 people are affected. It can feel like a life crisis and carries a significant risk for mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress. Therefore, getting support from a psychologist or psychotherapist can be invaluable for managing the feelings and challenges that arise.

What is infertility?

Infertility is defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy despite regular attempts for at least one year. It can affect both women and men and can be caused by factors such as:

• Medical conditions: E.g., polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis.
• Hormonal imbalances: Affecting ovulation and fertility.
• Age: A natural decline in fertility occurs over time.
• Lifestyle factors: Such as stress, smoking, and diet.

Infertility doesn’t just affect the physical; it can also lead to feelings of inadequacy, grief, and shame. The uncertainty can create anxiety and depression, and research shows that up to 60% of those struggling with fertility problems experience psychological symptoms. It’s common to feel isolated, but help and support are available.

How therapy can support you through fertility challenges.

Therapy is a form of treatment where you can explore and process emotions in a safe environment with a psychologist or psychotherapist. Through therapy, you can gain tools to manage both mental and emotional challenges. Here are some ways therapy for infertility can help:

• Express feelings: A therapist can help you articulate and process emotions like grief, anger, and frustration.
• Process expectations: You can receive support to cope with the loss of expectations and find new perspectives.
• Manage worry and anxiety: Learn strategies to reduce future worries and fear of failure.
• Strengthen relationships: Infertility can strain relationships. Therapy can help you communicate better and find ways to support each other.
• Increase self-awareness: By understanding how infertility affects you, you can work to strengthen your well-being.

Support for fertility challenges.

Infertility is a challenging life situation that can affect both your mental and physical health. It’s important to remember that you are not alone and that there is support to get.

Through therapy or other forms of support for infertility, you can find tools to manage both emotional and practical challenges. Here are some options:

1. Digital platforms

Sharing experiences with others can feel reassuring. For example, the Tilly app offers support for fertility struggles. The app includes:

• Self-help exercises.
• Meditation and yoga adapted for the fertility journey.
• Opportunity to exchange thoughts and experiences with others in the same situation.

Visit Mytilly.co to learn more.

2. Professional therapy

Therapy is a way to manage the psychological distress associated with infertility. A licensed psychologist or psychotherapist can provide you with tools and support to process emotions and manage worry. Therapy can be used as individual support or in combination with digital tools.