Hey friends! With everything going on – lockdowns, the coronavirus, and the feeling of isolation – it’s totally normal to feel a bit lost or overwhelmed, especially if you’re navigating fertility treatments. While the pandemic has shaken up our lives, remember, you’re not alone in your journey to becoming a parent.
To make things a bit easier, here are seven practical tips to support your mental health during these challenging times:
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Practice Self-Kindness
It’s easy to forget to be gentle with ourselves. Take a moment to do something nice for yourself or someone else. Reflect on how these kind acts make you feel good. Research shows that both practicing kindness and remembering kind gestures can uplift your mood. -
Engage in Calming Activities
Even though in-person classes might be off the table, you can find plenty of yoga or meditation videos online. These can help you find tranquility and focus during uncertain times. -
Breathe Deeply
When anxiety starts creeping in, try this breathing technique: inhale for 3 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and exhale for 5 seconds. Repeat a few times to help regain your calm. -
Clarify Your Fears
It’s natural to feel fear during such chaotic times. Write down what’s worrying you, assess how likely those fears are, and identify what you can control. This exercise can help you put things into perspective. -
Support Each Other
You and your partner are in this together. Take time to listen to each other and share your feelings. If you’re both feeling restless, maybe go for a long walk or try a board game—anything to break the routine! -
Confront Negative Thoughts
Instead of pushing negative feelings away, consider writing them down and then discarding the paper. It’s a symbolic way to let go of what’s weighing you down. -
Visualize Positive Outcomes
Dreaming about the future can be a powerful tool. Picture the positive outcomes you desire, as it can help you stay motivated and focused on your goals.
If you’re thinking about starting your fertility journey, check out our other blog post about at-home insemination which might be helpful. It’s also worth noting that for men looking to enhance their fertility, you can find some great insights over at Make a Mom. For more in-depth information about IVF, Wikipedia has a fantastic resource.
In summary, taking care of your mental well-being during a pandemic is crucial. By being kind to yourself, focusing on calming activities, breathing techniques, and supporting each other, you can navigate these tough times with a bit more ease. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey.