Navigating the Holidays After Miscarriage or During Infertility
The holidays are meant to be a special time with family and friends, but it can also be a very difficult time for those struggling with infertility or loss. For anyone who is having trouble getting pregnant or maintaining a healthy pregnancy, the holiday images of happy families and pregnancy announcements can be hard. Sometimes it feels like you can’t go anywhere without having a constant reminder that you are neither pregnant not a parent and it can be so difficult.
If this is something that you’re struggling with and feel more stressed around the holiday season, know you are not alone in those feelings. Here are some things to try and help make the holidays easier while grieving.
Acknowledge your feelings– It’s completely normal to feel sadness and grief, and it’s okay to cry it out or tell others about your feelings. Just because it’s the holidays doesn’t mean you have to pretend that everything is fine. Trying to hold your feelings in will only make things worse. Give yourself time to feel sadness, anger, grief, and frustration.
Talk to someone – There are so many other women that are feeling the same way you are, and chances are you have several friends going through something similar. Seek out support from your spouse or a friend and talk it out. It’s so important to talk out your feelings with your spouse. It’s also important to remember that men and women cope very differently, so don’t force them to say how they’re feeling.
Prepare yourself – There will most likely be plenty of people who will say something insensitive in regard to your journey to starting a family. Know that they most likely don’t realize what they’re saying in the moment and try to brush it off.
Know your limits – If you are about to attend a family event or party know how much you can take and when you need to step away. Know when you need to take a break from social media and actually do it. Be mindful of your feelings when navigating social events.
Seek help if needed – If you’re feeling especially overwhelmed during the holidays find something to self-sooth. Whether that’s journaling, going to therapy, attending a support group, or hanging out with friends. Do what’s best for you and what feels like the best to cope.
The holidays won’t ever be easy when dealing with infertility or loss. But you’re not alone in your feelings. If you need someone to vent to about how you’re feeling I am more than happy to chat! Email me or find me through the social media links at the bottom of the page.
