By Shamani Salahuddin

If you are a birth parent who has recently completed adoption in Reno, NV, you may be wondering: “What do I do now?” Post-adoption can trigger specific emotions, and you may want to seek help if it disrupts your daily life. Even if you are mentally prepared to follow the adoption plan before delivery, seeing your baby might bring new, uncomfortable things to light. 

While adoption can bring feelings of love and hope, you may also experience grief and sadness. Know these are all normal feelings to have after placing your baby for adoption. At Adoption Choices of Nevada, we are here to serve women facing unplanned pregnancies with the challenging emotions due to adoption. Our licensed adoption agencies in Nevada want to support you throughout your adoption journey and beyond. 

How can I Acknowledge My Emotions After Adoption? 

Determining your emotions after giving your baby up for adoption is essential. You should never ignore your feelings; they are honest and justified. You may feel sad, guilty, or even have second thoughts. No matter the emotion, let them out through crying, talking, or writing them down. If you feel grief, it doesn’t mean your decision was wrong. 

You are beginning the healing process by acknowledging your emotions. An excellent way to stay positive is to remember that you made this extraordinary decision out of love. It is imperative that you do not listen to people’s negative opinions about adoption. Never question your choice because of these opinions. You know how the adoption process works and how difficult it can be. Outsiders looking in do not understand it because they’ve never been through it. Adoption is a selfless act that provides your child with a loving family that will give them a fantastic future. 

Coping Mechanisms for Adoption in Nevada

As a birth mother, you are making the tough decision to place your child for adoption. You may find yourself dealing with excess feelings that sometimes overwhelm you. Having the appropriate tools to help healthily work through your emotions is necessary. If you struggle to process these feelings, you want to seek external help. Adoption Choices of Nevada has several experienced staff members who can help you resolve any feelings the adoption journey may bring. Our adoption centers provide several options to help facilitate your healing journey as a birth mother. The methods of healing for adoption in Nevada include: 

• Therapy

The best thing about therapy is that there are many ways to go about it. You can have one-on-one sessions with a licensed professional who can help you identify, understand, and articulate your feelings so they become easier to resolve. On the other hand, group therapy may allow you to see how others are working through their struggles. 

• Support Groups

Joining a support group provides a sense of community with those who share similar experiences to your own. Meeting birth mothers at various stages of the adoption process can give you perspective on your journey. Being amongst individuals who can understand your feelings in ways others can’t provides you with a safe space to express your feelings. In a support group, you can build bonds with others through giving and receiving support. 

• Retreats

Another method of healing is going on a retreat. Sometimes, you need to mentally escape to recharge and face your problems more effectively. Going on a solo or group retreat will allow you to reflect on your adoption journey and understand your feelings. Separating from your daily routine and stress brings peace and pause that your mind and body need. 

Maintaining a Relationship with your Reno Adoptive Family

As a birth parent, it is your choice whether or not you stay in touch with the adoptive family. It is possible to have a positive open adoption between the birth parents and the adoptive parents. There are many benefits to open communication with the adoptive family. When you can stay in contact, you may feel at ease knowing your child is in good hands. But there are some things to consider as well. 

Be honest about what is comfortable for you. Establishing this before the adoption is finalized is vital so neither party is surprised by any sudden change in actions. While entertainment often depicts a feud between the adoptive and birth parents, it is rarely that way. Open communication is critical in having a positive relationship.

There is Life After Adoption 

Adoption is a life-altering decision that comes with many different emotions. We want to help you come to terms with your adoption and get to your life after. You do have a life after adoption. Now that this stage of your life is over, the next can begin. You should feel hope for your future. You chose adoption for a reason, and now it’s time to live that out. 

If you are a pregnant woman considering adoption in Nevada, contact Adoption Choices of Nevada today if you have any questions about post-adoption support.