If you want to know what “future fear” means, just ask a man or woman trying to conceive and they will tell you how they feel on a daily basis
They will tell you that it is the fear that the next round of IVF might not work again, or that they might miscarry again, or that they might never actually achieve their dream to become a parent. They will tell you that it is all consuming and leaves you feeling sad and scared.
Of course future fear isn’t exclusive to just those TTC – the whole world have probably experienced it at some point in their lives.
“Future fear” refers to the anxiety, worry, or apprehension one may feel about events or circumstances that have not yet occurred. It involves concerns about what the future holds, and these fears can range from uncertainties about personal life, relationships, career, health, global events, or any other aspects of life.
People may experience future fear for various reasons, including the unknown, potential challenges, or the anticipation of negative outcomes. This fear can be a natural response to change, the unpredictability of life, or past experiences that have left a person feeling vulnerable or uncertain about what lies ahead.
Common manifestations of future fear include anxiety, stress, sleep disturbances, and difficulty making decisions. It’s essential to recognise that while some level of concern about the future is normal, excessive and uncontrollable fear really can have a negative impact on mental well-being and overall quality of life.
So the big question, is how do you keep control of these fears?
Addressing future fear involves developing coping strategies, cultivating resilience, and adopting a positive mindset. “Easier said than done!” we hear you cry. Yes, it is hard to develop a positive mindset when you are experiencing sadness, grief and fear, but, if you can, start to take tiny steps away from the future by taking a look at these suggestions…
Mindfulness and Present Moment Awareness
Practice mindfulness to stay in the present. You can try this by focusing on the current moment and looking at the positives in your life – your home, your partner, your career. Look at what you have achieved so far! You are amazing! Remember, the future only exists in your brain, so the dreaded vision you may have doesn’t actually exist. So, look at what does exist – the moment you are in. Make this moment feel as good as you can.
Identify and Challenge Negative Thoughts
Pay attention to negative thoughts about the future and challenge them then ask yourself if your fears are based on realistic expectations or if they are driven by anxiety.
Set Realistic Goals
Break down larger goals into smaller, steps. Create a plan and take one step at a time to work toward your objectives.
Build a Support System
Share your concerns with friends, family, or a counsellor and surround yourself with positive and supportive people who can provide encouragement.
Develop Coping Strategies
Identify healthy coping mechanisms, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies, to manage stress and create a list of activities that bring you joy and help you relax.
Learn from the Past
Reflect on past challenges and how you overcame them. You might be feeling weak, but you have survived, so recognise your resilience and ability to adapt to different situations.
Focus on What You Can Control
Concentrate on aspects of your life that you can control – your health, your environment, the people around you.
Seek Professional Help
If your fears are overwhelming or impacting your daily life, consider seeking the help of a mental health professional. Therapy can provide tools and strategies to manage anxiety about the future.
Remember, overcoming fear is a gradual process, and it’s okay to seek support when needed. Building resilience and a positive mindset takes time and effort, but with consistent practice, you can develop the tools to face the future with greater confidence
