Hardship can come in many forms. Adversity can be temporary and acute, such as dealing with a breakup, struggling to pay bills, or fighting with a friend or family member. It can also be ongoing, such as coping with a death of a loved one, or living with a chronic illness. We’ve all been through hard times, and what’s certain is that they cause stress, anxiety, and even depression. With time comes healing, so it’s okay to allow yourself to mourn, or grapple what you’re going through. 

Infertility brings many specific hardships along with it. It can cause feelings of stress and uncertainty, which bring mental health challenges.

If you’ve experienced pregnancy loss, it may be one of the hardest things you’ve ever had to face. Amy Divaraniya, Oova’s founder, experienced infertility first hand. She says, “Infertility is similar to running a marathon. It’s full of difficult moments but the best way through is to breathe. Focus on finishing the race rather than being the first to the finish line. By focusing on one step at a time, you will get to the end.”

While hardship may cause you to want to isolate yourself and hide from what’s going on, there are healthier ways to deal with what you’re going through. Here are a few ideas.

Acknowledge your pain

While it may be tempting to try to pretend like nothing’s wrong, this will only make the problem more difficult to cope with. If you’re experiencing mental health issues, acknowledging that you’re having a hard time will allow you to ask for help, and set healthy boundaries in your daily life. 

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When something in your life is causing you stress, the first step to making change is acknowledging its negative effect on you. This can be anything from a relationship, friendship, job, or social obligation. 

Prioritize your overall health and wellness

When you’re going through a stressful situation, caring for yourself can sometimes be the first thing you sacrifice. However, feeling your best physically will allow you to better cope with adversity. Some things to keep in mind are sleep, diet, and exercise. 

Sleep deprivation will cause you to feel chronic fatigue, memory issues, headaches, and irritability. All of these symptoms make it more difficult to deal with adversity and hardship. Keeping up a healthy sleep schedule helps you best manage what you’re dealing with.

Maintaining a healthy diet also ensures that you feel the best you can.When hardship hits, it may be tempting to eat unhealthy foods. However, by keeping a balanced diet, you’ll boost your overall health and be better able to cope with any situation. 

Lastly, many studies have shown the benefit of exercise in reducing stress and anxiety. Adding moderate exercise to your routine will allow you to feel more relaxed and in control. 

Ask for help

Know that if you’re struggling with your mental health, you’re not alone. If you’re feeling anxious, depressed, stressed, burnt out, or simply not like yourself, reach out to someone you trust. Seeking out help from a mental health professional can make a world of difference if you’re having a difficult time.

Takeaways

Infertility is far from easy, and with it can come a unique set of stresses, worries, and even mental health challenges. By acknowledging what you're going through, prioritizing self-care — especially your health and wellness — and asking for support, you can better navigate your journey.