How to Support Your Well-Being This Christmas
At Sims IVF, we understand that the Christmas season can be especially challenging for those trying to conceive. A time often associated with joy and togetherness can also heighten feelings of grief, frustration, or loneliness for anyone longing to start or grow their family.
With 1 in 6 couples experiencing infertility, it’s important to remember that you are not alone. Many others share the emotions you may be feeling, and every one of those feelings is valid.
Navigating this deeply personal journey can be difficult, particularly during a season filled with expectations. That’s why Sims IVF offers a range of support to help you through the Christmas season and throughout the year. From online resources and counselling to dedicated team support and our emergency line, we’re here when you need us.
Our Counsellor, Helga Behan, has put together guidance to help you navigate the Christmas season with care and compassion.
“Christmas can bring a lot of emotions, grief, loss, isolation, sadness, anger, etc. It’s important to put your self-care first, meeting your needs, big or small, as they are.
Decide the type of Christmas you would like to have and have that as a goal.
If you wish to stay at home, ask yourself, How do I make that happen? What are my needs? How do I make my needs happen? What are my stress relievers? For example, walks, lots of sleep, movies, etc. If you are a couple, take this time to be together, even if it is just doing nothing. When you are going through fertility treatment, the relationship can get a bit lost in the medical process.
If you feel pressure to attend gatherings, put a plan in place. Example, “it’s good to be here as I wasn’t feeling well earlier,” and if things get too much at the gathering, say you are not feeling well again and need to go home. Have a code with your partner or friend to say Time to go now.
Have the right people around you. People who can be there for you empathically and not try to “fix it for you”. A listening ear. Family and friends mean well, but it can be hard for them to know what it feels like to be you, and they can say the wrong thing unintentionally.
Have compassion for yourself, ask, “How am I feeling today”? What do I need to put in place, maybe breathing techniques, meditation, allowing yourself to feel your emotions, minding yourself with them and letting them go. Keep communication open with your partner or friends.”
~ Helga Behan, Fertility Counsellor
At Sims IVF, we are committed to walking this journey with you - not just during Christmas, but every step of the way. Whether you need emotional support, guidance on your treatment options, or simply someone who understands, our team is here to help you navigate the path ahead with care and compassion. No matter where you are on your fertility journey, you don’t have to face it alone. Reach out to us whenever you need support - we’re here for you, today and always. Get in touch here.
