Article Synopsis by Natalie Vecchione, Social Media Coordinator with Vecc and Associates-
”Perhaps, before summarizing this well-written and important article, I can share my experience as woman, who has experienced infertility and depression. Twenty three years ago, my husband and I began fertility treatments, which continued for about three years. Although my husband and I were young and early into our marriage, we were told that fertility treatments were necessary and the only chance we would have for my becoming pregnant, since I had already had diagnosis of severe endometriosis. For those three years, our lives were consumed with getting pregnant. It seemed like all of our friends, co-workers and relatives were either pregnant or already had children. We constantly were asked “So, when are you two going to have kids?” It was our primary goal. We let it define us and looking back…..I realize it opened a door to additional stress, anxiety and ultimately depression at the time, for me.
This article clearly identifies how infertility is linked to depression, some of the reasons individuals with infertility struggle with depression, symptoms/treatment of depression and how to find support.
While reading this important and insightful article, a few things really struck a chord with me. Key things that I would have told myself 23 years ago, while we were undergoing our fertility treatments:
1. Stress- Infertility can be a stressful (emotionally, physically and financially) and all-consuming experience, especially when there is pressure to become pregnant. Being able to identify the stress (and anxiety) that comes along with infertility is so necessary to identify what can help you through this experience. Also, knowing when to seek out a therapist or counselor to discuss this stress and identify healthy coping mechanisms is key!
2. Embracing a healthy lifestyle, finding a new-shared hobby/activity and trying new activities to build new, shared interests. Doing these things are not only helpful, but they ‘can help re-balance a couple’s life’. At the time, my husband and I did that somewhat…..but looking back at our infertility journey, our doing new things and having new things to look forward to (more often than we did) would have really helped in recharging our batteries!
3. Finding support from others with similar experiences. Thankfully, there are more infertility support groups (in person, online and through social media) than there were 23 years ago! RESOLVE, The National Infertility Association, is an extremely helpful resource in providing support groups, resources and helping those with infertility struggles know that they are not alone!
This article is a great reminder, for anyone with infertility struggles, about the importance of taking care of your mental health and being honest with yourself (and significant other) about the stress, anxiety and depression that can accompany infertility.”
finneranpsychotherapist 