“We all have emotional needs, and the fertility journey is one of the hardest and most trying on our hearts and our heads.” – Dr. Sarah Zadek, ND
There are many ways that humans organize themselves in social communities. The other day I stopped and realized that I’d had incredibly positive text conversations with three of my colleagues at Conceive Health and it wasn’t even 10 am. I realized how much these interactions created a positive effect on my mood and overall mental wellness. Over the past week, I had a positive phone conversation with the CEOs and founders of this clinic about my future career goals and another conversation with another Conceive ND who was helping me take care of an acute health concern.
I wanted to take this time to tell you how amazing this team is and how much they care about their patients but also their own kind. It also made me think about how important it is to have that kind of support when you’re going through a fertility journey.
Some people go through IUI or IVF procedures alone, without a partner. Others cannot tell anyone at their place of work that they’re going through fertility treatments. Some people can’t find the words or the ways to tell even their best friends what they’re going through. This is in part, why I believe we rarely talk about miscarriages. It’s hard to talk about this stuff; it’s hard to admit how you’re feeling, and sometimes the reaction or feedback you get from those friends and family members is not what you were expecting, or makes you feel worse.
As human beings who have just gone through the worst of a pandemic (*knock on wood*) I believe we really need to get back to reaching out to our support networks. You might be the person who needs face-to-face interaction, or you might prefer communicating by text, email, or phone. Do what works for you. If you’re not getting the emotional support, you need from a friend or partner, then tell them what you need from them.
This is something my husband and I practice with each other. He’s the person where, when I have a problem or something is bothering me, he wants to fix it. He’ll come up with solutions and try to solve everything. But I have to tell him I don’t need him to fix anything. Sometimes I just need him to listen, and then tell me, “That sucks. I’m really sorry you’re going through that.” And to give me a hug.
That warm physical contact is important, too. Whether it’s from a partner, a best friend, your mom, or other family members, don’t be afraid to ask for what you need. Hugs and cuddles cause the release of the hormone oxytocin, the “feel-good” hormone associated with social bonding and trust, which helps decrease stress.
We all have emotional needs, and the fertility journey is one of the hardest and most trying on our hearts and our heads. Whether you only have one person in your life that you trust with this, or maybe you have dozens. Reach out. Ask for what YOU need. And remember that you are not alone! You also have us, your Conceive Health team, on your side and always ready to listen.
To learn more about how you can support your fertility, or to book an online appointment with a Conceive Health ND, contact us today.
