Walters State Professor Shares Hope for Dealing with Infertility and Grief

A Walters State professor hopes her new book will equip both individuals and therapists in dealing with a common, yet seldom discussed topic: Pain related to infertility and reproductive loss.

Walters State Professor Authors "Infertility and Grief: A Helping Professionals Guide"

A Walters State professor hopes her new book will equip both individuals and therapists in dealing with a common, yet seldom discussed topic: Pain related to infertility and reproductive loss. 

 “Working with Infertility and Grief: A Practical Guide for Helping Professionals,” grew out of the personal struggles of its authors, Dr. Whitney Jarnagin, dean of behavioral and social sciences and professor of psychology at Walters State; Dr. Denis’ Thomas, the first faculty director of the Center for Play Therapy and Expressive Arts at Lipscomb University; and Dr. Megan Herscher, associate professor of counseling and coordinator of the clinical mental health program at Carson-Newman University.

All three leaned on each other when facing different infertility and reproductive loss issues.

“This is a very personal and private struggle,” Jarnagin said. “People don’t talk about it very much. This book grew out of our desire to find a purpose for this part of our journey.”

“Working with Infertility and Grief” is the first book of its kind targeting counselors, doctors, social workers and anyone else in the helping field. The book contains materials for a 12-week group therapy session. 

“This book will help anyone working with clients who are suffering through infertility or miscarriage,” Jarnagin said. The book will also help individuals seeking more knowledge. 

“Society doesn’t acknowledge this as a loss,” Jarnagin said. “For the person experiencing infertility, it’s a very real loss. Most people, including therapists do not realize what the challenges of healing are for those suffering with these issues. Those working through infertility over time and those suffering multiple miscarriages can suffer from anxiety, depression and even PTSD.”

The first section of the book is devoted to the biological, psychological and social challenges of infertility. The second section of the book looks at how infertility affects sub-groups, including men. The last section is focused on healing and evidence-based practices. 

Jarnagin’s advice to those with loved ones dealing with infertility: Say something encouraging. It doesn’t have to be complicated.

“One of the best things to say is ‘I am sorry you are going through this and I am here for you,’” she said.