Elizabeth Grill, Psy.D
Board Chair, RESOLVE
Danielle Melfi
CEO, RESOLVE
Today, 1 in 6 people will face infertility. It can bring profound stress, with difficulty conceiving often described as an emotional crisis that erodes self-esteem, identity and relationships.
For many women, the role of ‘mother’ dominates the messages we receive since childhood. Family members ask when you’ll have kids at gatherings; movies idealise pregnancy bliss; and religion upholds motherhood as a sacred duty. Unfortunately, for so many, the path to motherhood isn’t as easy as our middle school sex-ed classes made it seem.
The psychological burden of infertility
Women frequently report infertility as the most stressful experience of their lives, with the distress of failed IVF ranked alongside cancer diagnosis or losing a loved one. Patients feel a loss of control as lives are put on hold; injections dominate routines; and careers suffer from constant medical appointments. Because of this, the leading reason insured patients abandon fertility treatment is the psychological burden of infertility.
Lack of openness about infertility
Despite the stress, most patients don’t share their struggles with loved ones, and only a small minority receive any form of mental health support. A recent Harris Poll highlights that more than 50% of people facing infertility feel completely alone during their fertility journey, and more than 60% wish they had been referred to a therapist or support group. Many avoid seeking help due to stigma or the pain of unsolicited advice. This leaves too many suffering in silence.
Social support is one of the most
powerful protective factors against
the emotional toll of infertility.
Changing the course of the infertility journey
Social support is one of the most powerful protective factors against the emotional toll of infertility. Peer support groups are proven to help patients cope with infertility and pregnancy loss. Support groups create space for shared understanding, validation and empathy — resources that partners, friends, and family alone often cannot provide. They help patients feel heard and learn coping tools from others navigating the same journey.
RESOLVE offers a national network of free support groups with virtual options, ensuring access regardless of geography. Support can reduce isolation and make the difference in whether a patient continues treatment. If you’re navigating infertility, remember: you’re not alone.
US patients can find a support group at https://resolve.org/get-help/support-groups/
