Are you coping with an unexpected pregnancy and feeling depressed this winter? Perhaps you’d describe this as, “the winter blues,” or maybe the sadness you’re experiencing feels more profound. It’s natural to feel down in the wintertime thanks to gray, frigid weather and limited daylight hours. Some individuals struggle with mental health conditions that can be especially difficult to manage around this time, like major depression or seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Of course, just learning that you’re unexpectedly pregnant can be enough to trigger a deep and overwhelming sense of sadness. Many women feel this way because they’re unhappy with their options, even the one they think is best. This can make a positive outcome seem impossible. Thankfully, it’s not. Please read on!
Maybe you’re sure that abortion is the right path for you, but you still feel sad or anxious when you think about taking that step. It’s important to ask yourself why. Are you nervous about the physical process? Are you feeling unprepared? Or, are you experiencing a sense of intuition that’s worth paying attention to? Perhaps all these questions would be wise to ask. Avenue Women’s Center is here to help women make sense of the painful and confusing emotions surrounding an unexpected pregnancy. We’re a first-step pregnancy clinic that’s all about meeting women where they are and equipping them with the tools they need to make well-informed, confident decisions.
Discover our free and confidential limited medical services and contact us today! As our reviews attest, we’re a place where women can truly feel safe processing their unique situations.
*There is a distinction between having feelings of deep sadness and meeting the criteria for a mental illness. A diagnosis and/or treatment guidance would need to be provided by a qualified mental health professional. If you’re feeling depressed, consider reaching out to a professional counselor. Avenue Women’s Center does not provide professional counseling services. However, we can offer referrals for clinics that do provide mental health support.
*If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, call 911 or contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline right away. The 988 Lifeline provides free and confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
There’s Power in Community
I recently heard a quote from author bell hooks that describes the power of human connection in difficult times: “Rarely, if ever, are any of us healed in isolation. Healing is an act of communion.” There’s no shame in feeling sad or depressed as you navigate this unexpected pregnancy. Just know that this feeling doesn’t have to gain a foothold in your life and drive your decision-making process, no matter how powerful it may feel. Reaching out for support is one of the most effective ways to gain perspective and begin your journey toward a renewed headspace. Learning how to cope well with painful emotions is bound to be a process, but even small steps toward a healthier mental outlook can help you engage in healthy decision-making.
One common symptom of depression is the loss of motivation, which can make it very challenging for depressed individuals to pursue the very thing they need most: community support. The sensitive nature of an unexpected pregnancy (and the winter weather) can also cause people to withdraw from others physically and emotionally. If you need help, and reaching out for support feels like a mountain you’re not strong enough to climb, try starting small. Text a loved one to say, “I’m feeling really down. I could use a friend.” If a family member asks about a change in your mood, let them know what you’re honestly feeling, even if you choose to keep your pregnancy news to yourself.
Insight from Within: Unpacking Your Own Emotions, Values, and Beliefs
No matter which option you’re considering, it’s worth it to ask yourself if and how the future pregnancy outcome you’re anticipating may be impacting your emotions. There may not be a simple answer. It may not come to you right away. But the process of exploring this could clarify which path would give you the most peace of mind in the long run. If you’re considering abortion and feel sad, pay attention to those feelings. They might signal doubt about your choice, a need for more time, or even early grief. Even a wanted abortion can bring sadness that takes time to process. Remember, the path that seems most logical may or may not be the one that’s right for you. That’s because, like anyone, you have your own unique needs and desires. You have diverse emotions, beliefs, values, and dreams to consider, which may be best nurtured by choosing a different way. Of course, only one outcome (abortion, adoption, or parenting) can be chosen in the end. But identifying all the factors involved and weighing which hold the most personal meaning for you is an important part of the process.
Exploring Your Options with Avenue
Know that you do have a choice, and you’re not alone, even if you feel isolated and out of options right now. Exploring your options with an Avenue pregnancy consultant or medical professional would be a great next step. We’re here to break down the processes and risks involved with abortion, adoption, and parenting, using language that’s unbiased and easy to understand. We’re also here to be a neutral sounding board as you process your feelings about your pregnancy and all the potential paths available to you. It’s amazing how much insight you can gain just by talking with someone who listens well, and offers words of encouragement while challenging you to live your best life.
Even for people who aren’t facing an unexpected pregnancy or struggling with depression, winter can often feel dreary. As someone who’s managing both these challenges, on top of the winter gloom, your circumstances may feel unbearably heavy. Our compassionate team at Avenue is here to offer ongoing emotional support, no matter what you decide. We provide no-cost services, including medical-grade pregnancy tests, options consultations, and limited medical ultrasounds at multiple locations in Chicagoland. We’re a pressure-free, judgment-free zone.
Call, text, chat, or email to schedule a private consultation! We offer virtual and in-person appointments.
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.