Should you have a child or not?

During their first session, a couple in their early 30s tells me they want to explore, in therapy, whether they should have a baby or not. Very often, either one or both partners are really worried about the world we live in, whether it’s in the context of climate change or violence, lack of safety, and say they don’t want to bring their child into a world where there is so little to be optimistic about. I really want a baby but I fear I will self-sabotage.” In addition, the hybrid and remote working model has shown young couples they can enjoy greater freedom and flexibility in living life and travelling if it’s just the two of them. Moreover, the past two years have shown that in several cases, either one or both partners are struggling with mental health issues, even taking psychiatric medication. Maybe organisations, communities and policymakers need to invest in ways to create psychologically safe places that provide systemic support, while couples continue their efforts to make an informed choice.