If you are experiencing infertility, you undoubtedly know just how frustrating dealing with it can be. Indeed, you might spend thousands of dollars and a seemingly endless number of months or years trying to grow your family. Nevertheless, you also must recognize that infertility can take a considerable toll on your mental well-being.
According to the Mayo Clinic, women who have infertility struggles tend to have the same anxiety and depression levels as those who have life-threatening medical conditions, like cancer, HIV or heart disease. If you are having difficulty keeping your anxiety and depression under control, it might be advisable to see a fertility therapist.
Do you have a plan?
Part of the reason infertility is so stressful is that trying to solve it can be expensive and comes with no guarantees. If uncertainty has bogged you down, a fertility therapist can help you better understand all your options. He or she also can give you a roadmap so you know what to expect.
Are you having trouble focusing?
Infertility can be all-consuming, causing you to lose focus on your job, social activities and hobbies. If your infertility comes with anxiety and depression, you may need some assistance getting your life back on track. A fertility counselor can help with this.
Do you have relationship issues?
As you might suspect, infertility can be hard on the good relationship you have with your significant other, as he or she might also be struggling with infertility-associated depression or anxiety. An experienced fertility therapist can help you deal with any negative impact infertility has on your relationship.
Ultimately, while it may be tempting to focus on the medical and legal components of infertility, prioritizing your mental and emotional well-being can be good for everyone in your family.