Dealing (or not) with the emotional toll

I can imagine that for those of you on this long and difficult journey, you've needed emotional support. I also need to talk about it, make sure that our thoughts are normal and our arguments valid.

I have scheduled an appointment to see a therapist Wednesday. (by myself) Any other suggestions?

I appreciate it- thanks.

Rascal

Re: Dealing (or not) with the emotional toll

I see a therapist and it has helped me immensely. I can't imagine going through all of this without having an objective shoulder to lean on.

I also do acupuncture. I find it extremely relaxing and calming.

Re: Dealing (or not) with the emotional toll

these boards so many understanding and supportive women here amazing

Re: Dealing (or not) with the emotional toll

I have not seen a therapist for IF issues, but I definitely think therapy is an amazing support, and I have benefitted from it in the past.

My support getting through IF has been the amazing women on this board, and our monthly GTGs. I don't know what I would do without them!

Best of luck to you.

Re: Dealing (or not) with the emotional toll

Posted by curiousO

these boards so many understanding and supportive women here amazing

Message edited 3/29/2011 10:29:11 AM.

Re: Dealing (or not) with the emotional toll

although i'm not dealing with infertility per se, i have had 3 losses and have been TTC for 2 years now so i definitely struggle with a HUGE emotional toll each day. on the due date for the first baby we lost, i literally was paralized with grief. i didn't move out of bed for days until finally my DH made me call my therapist. i've been seeing her ever since (over a year) and i truly believe i wouldn't be functioning without her help.

also, for me, what helps is to stay VERY present. i try to stay in the each moment as they come and concentrate on the good things! if i start to think about our issues TTC or the future, i get overwhelmed and incredibly sad.

i'm so glad you have an appointment with a therapist! that's such a good step

Re: Dealing (or not) with the emotional toll

Posted by curiousO

these boards so many understanding and supportive women here amazing

Message edited 3/29/2011 10:29:11 AM.

Re: Dealing (or not) with the emotional toll

Some of you girls are mentioning therapists. Can you pass along their info if the specialize in infertility/loss?

Re: Dealing (or not) with the emotional toll

I found this board to be an amazing comfort as well. You start to realize that we all have very similar emotions/thoughts/feelings and it feels so good to not be alone in the journey anymore.

In addition to that, I started a journal. I bought a really pretty notebook from Barnes and Noble and started writing. I don't write in it every day, just when I am feeling overwhelmed or I want to keep track of an important Doctor visit. It is a good way to get my emotions out.

When I was really down, I started a project that was helping me cope. I made a slideshow just explaining my feelings about what we were going through with photos of us and music. I cried every time I worked on it but it felt good to put my emotions into something tangible. Now that I have found out we are pregnant (got my BFP last Friday) I don't know that I will share my project with anyone. It is very personal and I am glad that I did it, but it was really for me.

My best suggestion to you is find a way to channel your emotions that best suits you, whatever it may be. I found these suggestions helpful, but you will find things that work for you too.

Good luck and baby dust always!!!!!!

Re: Dealing (or not) with the emotional toll

Let it out. If you need to cry, be angry, or vent then do it! Find someone or someplace (here) you trust. If you hold it in it will drive you crazy. Your feelings are validated and it is ok to feel them. Even though crying and having a "breakdown" would feel terrible at the moment, I would always feel better later.

Re: Dealing (or not) with the emotional toll

Also check out the Resolve website. They have great discussion boards.