Surviving the holiday season with infertility: 8 tips from a DC therapist.
Sean Pavone for Getty Images Pro
Create new boundaries.
Just for this year, you say no to activities that you normally love to do but may feel very painful this year. Activities that are focused on small kiddos or babies might be too much this season. This doesn't have to be a permanent boundary-just for this year.
Skip social media.
Take a break from social media during the holidays. Although social media is not reality, the pictures of pregnancy announcements or "perfect" families may create unnecessary stress and sadness. Come back to your scrolling after the holiday!
Schedule in breaks.
Schedule in self care breaks like naps, reading, watching a movie, window shopping, taking a walk or going to your favorite coffee shop. Make time to do your favorite workout on the go if traveling, like pilates or yoga.
Prioritize adult fun.
What are your favorite holiday activities that are for adults only? Distract yourself from the grief of infertility-have a date night at your local pop up Christmas bar, go to a comedy club or throw an ugly sweater party with a few friends. Watch a holiday movie on a projector with blankets and a bonfire outside.
Gratitude practice.
What are your favorite holiday activities that are for adults only? Distract yourself from pain of infertility-have a date night at your local pop up Christmas bar, go to a comedy club or throw an ugly sweater party with a few friends. Watch a holiday movie on a projector with blankets and a bonfire outside.
Give back.
If you are wanting to connect with kiddos or babies in need, fill up your local toy and school supply drive bin. Schedule some time to volunteer at your local food bank or soup kitchen.
Put life on pause.
Instead of traveling home for the holidays, do you need a week to recharge at the beach? Or, do you need a staycation at home? Give yourself permission to break your traditions and fill your cup back up over the holiday.
Practice self compassion.
If you are struggling to get into the holiday spirit, don't beat yourself up. The intensity of your pain will not be like this forever. You are not a grinch-you are grieving. Treat yourself like you would a best friend or loved one.
Holiday activities in Washington, DC for those navigating infertility.
Holiday Themed Pop Up Bars in Washington, DC:
Hanukkah Bar at Ivy & Coney
Festivus at The Passenger
Candy Cane Greenhouses at Maxwell DC Wine
and more holiday pop ups!
Comedy Clubs in DC
Dinner & A Show in washington, DC
Washington Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Move your body with pilates and yoga in DC
Get creative with art classes in Washington DC
Participate in Online Women’s Individual Therapy Today
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is proven to be an effective treatment modality for depression and anxiety. At our DC-based Therapy office, as a skilled therapist, I am here to walk with you through your grief of infertility and provide tools to navigate this immense challenge. Follow the steps below to get started on your journey to healing.
Get to know me here.
Fill out our convenient online mental health services contact form.
Begin your journey to healing.
Other Mental Health Services Offered at Greater Washington DC and New York City CBT Counseling for Women
We understand that women face a unique set of mental health challenges in today’s society and deserve specialized support unique to their specific needs. Group therapy and individual therapy are both available for women navigating infertility, utilizing an integrative therapy approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).