Helping you cope with infertility

Is A Support Group Right For You?

By Dr. Judith (Judy) Burnett, a licensed psychologist specializing in reproductive health issues working with Fertility C.A.R.E.

Communicating with family and friends about infertility may be one of the most difficult challenges couples face. Unfortunately, even the most caring relative or friend may not be able to understand the devastation created by infertility and therefore may be unable to offer help to the couple experiencing infertility. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength!

However, people experiencing infertility may find the support they need in a support group. (Find out more about the Fertility C.A.R.E. Support Group.) A support group is made up of people in a similar life situation who, together in a confidential setting, share feelings, concerns, and creative ways to cope with or solve problems. Explore aspects of a support group below:

Why join a support group?

A support group will help decrease your sense of isolation in facing a difficult life situation. More than likely, a group will help you regain previous levels of coping skills or develop more effective coping mechanisms for the particular issues you face. Many people in support groups also report a sense of enhanced self esteem.

When should you seek a support group?

Consider joining a support group when you are:

  • Having difficulty with decision-making
  • Embarking on new parenting options
  • Dealing with a major loss
  • Having difficulty communicating with your partner
  • Dealing with family, friends, and the fertile world at large

Is a support group right for me?

A support group is right for you if:

  • You are feeling lonely and isolated and have very few people to talk with about your infertility.
  • You feel that no one understands and everyone you know is pregnant or has children.
  • If your partner is the only person who provides you with emotional support
  • Infertility is affecting your work and career.
  • You feel that your life plan is out of control.
  • You are having trouble navigating through your medical treatment options.
  • You can't decide when "enough is enough"
  • Holidays and coping with family and friends is becoming more and more difficult.

Myths And Facts About Support Groups

Being in a support group is like going to therapy.

A support group is not designed to offer professional counseling or psychological therapy. Rather, the group provides an opportunity to give to and receive support from others also struggling with infertility.

I'll have to bare my soul and talk about the most private areas of my life.

It's up to you how much information and emotion to share with the group. You remain in control.

A support group will go on for months.

Most support groups meet for a limited amount of sessions, usually between 10 to 15 meetings.

Joining a support group of infertile men, women, or couples will just make me feel worse.

You will receive support for your pain and disappointment and will also learn new methods of coping that can help you move forward.

Much of the information in this article on Support Systems and Groups was obtained from the RESOLVE organization website.

Contact us to find out more about Fertility C.A.R.E.'s support groups.