Life Transitions & How To Recognize Them
Life transitions happen normally in life. These transitions are often expected or planned on, however, might still leave a person feeling off balance. Anxiety, depression or sadness can hit when a person going through a change in life isn’t coping well. Age can be a factor for when life transitions might occur, but other life transitions might happen with less predictably. An anxiety therapist or counselor in Orlando who specializes in life changes can help you navigate the bumpy road. Transitions don’t have to negatively impact your quality life. With professional help, you can start feeling more positive again.
Do you find yourself reminiscing about the past a lot? Are you aware of the good things in your life but unable to appreciate them? If so, you might truly benefit from talking to a counselor to help you identify roadblocks to your happiness.
Quality of life can be impacted by specific stages of life that bring changes. Counselors in Orlando are trained to work through any of them with you.
Here are just a few to consider that might be causing stress or anxiety for you:
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Young Adulthood
This is a period marked by increased autonomy. High school graduation, college, deeper relationships, and building self-sufficiency. The key is to understand that this stage is full of new opportunities. It is a time when finding the right support and using resources is very helpful. Don’t be afraid to ask for career counseling, individual therapy, or a life coach if you need some extra guidance along the way.
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Marriage
Even though this is normally a very joyful and planned event, it can still bring stress, anxiety or worry about changing after getting married. Communicate honestly with your spouse and don’t be afraid to seek professional relationship counseling. This is a time when two people are learning what it takes to join lives together and there will be bumps in the road. Go easy on yourself and take one day at a time.
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Relocation
Anytime you have uprooted from a familiar environment, it can cause stress. The best way to embrace these types of changes is by building a new support network, joining groups, or staying in virtual contact with loved ones far away. Try not to focus on the distance, but the opportunity for growth. Getting out of your comfort zone often forces you to rely on your instincts. You are forced to become adaptable which can prepare you for other major changes coming your way later in life.
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Parenthood
By far, becoming a new parent causes anxiety, stress, and changes in life that are unexpected. Even if this is the happiest, most joyful time in a person’s life, the transition can be filled with negative emotions too. There aren’t right or wrong ways to handle becoming a new parent, but getting support is helpful in easing into the transition to parenthood.
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Mid-life Changes
The 20’s, 30’s, and early 40’s are usually filled with many new experiences and good health. By the time that a person reaches their mid-40’s or 50’s, they begin to feel a sense of anxiety, depression, or worry, about the future. The transition into mid-life can be a time with talking to a counselor in Orlando really helps reframe any negative thoughts about aging.
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Late Adulthood
Late adulthood might be marked by significant physical or mental changes that can bring about a concern. This stage in life is a time that many people reflect on their past and start planning their retirement. Many people who are in late adulthood stop working so much, downsize homes, grieve the death of their parents, and have grandchildren. This period of life can be filled with change and adjustment. It can require adaptability and a positive mindset about the future.
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Retirement
When a person retires, it is common for them to experience low-grade depression, insomnia, boredom, and a loss of purpose. If this transition in life causes depression or anxiety, it is useful to find a resource that can help you reframe a negative mindset. It is very helpful to find community support, be close to family, and to stay active. Finding clubs, outlets, and new activities to engage in might require time, but will greatly enhance the retirement experience.
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Getting Help
A life transition therapist will help you understand that what you are experiencing is normal. At Orlando Thrive Therapy, an Orlando counselor will work with you to reframe your negative mindset about the life change you are experiencing. You will be able to develop a new sense of purpose and a more positive perspective so you can appreciate all that your life has to offer. Call us or email us to get more information or get started today for a better tomorrow.
