The holiday season can be a joyful AND stressful time. Many recognize this as the “most wonderful time of the year,” those who are struggling with infertility can be undergoing an extreme feeling of loneliness and disappointment. During this time of joy and celebration, it is rather important to take into consideration how the holidays can affect men and women along their IVF journey.
It’s OK to be selective.
When receiving invitations to holiday celebrations and parties, it’s crucial to be selective about which invitations you accept. At many of these get togethers, there may be children and pregnant women, which may heighten emotions. It’s OK to protect your space and be selective of your surroundings — during the season you have to concentrate on yourself. Don’t feel obligated to say yes.
Spending time with family & friends.
It’s important to surround yourself with good company, especially during the holiday season. When spending time with your loved ones, consider the emotional implications that may come with holiday festivities. Rather than staying for an extended period of time for the holiday traditions, it’s ok to come for what you have the emotional capacity to handle during this time.
Expressing your emotions & setting boundaries.
Especially during the holidays, emotions are high and there will more than likely be a lot of tough questions to navigate through. Your loved ones will all but certainly want to inquire information on your journey, how you’re feeling, etc. With this, it is important to decide how you will want to express these emotions.
Are you comfortable with sharing? Is it too emotional of a subject and you’d rather not discuss? Set those boundaries with your loved ones and allow yourself to feel all of the emotions that come along with a journey of trying to conceive. Setting boundaries of what you are and are not comfortable sharing can help your loved ones to support you in a manner that best suits you.
Make time for yourself.
Although the holiday season is typically a time of sharing your time and giving to others, infertility is a journey that can take a lot out of not only you but your partner as well. In a time of pouring out to others, make sure you are keeping your glass full as well. Make it a point to participate in activities and self-care that brings you comfort and peace. Whether it be taking a walk in the morning or unwinding with a candle & warm bath, during the holiday season it is important to make time to do what makes you feel good.
Our hearts go out to those who may be struggling this holiday season. You are not alone — Cryo Courier is here to support you in your journey.
Happy Holidays from us, to you!
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