Life Changes Can Impact Your Emotions and State of Mind
Why Working with a Therapist is Helpful During a Major Life Change
What are some examples of major life changes?
Why are major life changes stressful?
How do I deal with major changes in my life?
Helen Keller once said, “A bend in the road is not the end of the road…unless you fail to make the turn.” Major life changes can cause stress for people who feel more comfortable in a routine. On the other hand, for those who seek newness and spontaneity in their lives, change is more easily welcomed. When major changes occur outside of our control, it can be a lot harder to deal with. Major changes in life are a widespread occurrence that can cause stress, disruption, and turmoil. However despite all of these changes, it is vital to learn how to maintain your balance and inner peace to ride out the storm with ease. The therapists at Clear Mind Counseling in San Diego can help you navigate life’s twists and turns.
Some examples of challenging life changes are:
Marriage or a new relationship
Arrival of a new baby
Divorce, separation, or recovery from infidelity
Retirement, job loss, or career change
Financial gain or loss
Serious illness
Death of a loved one
Addiction
Relocation
Why are major life changes so stressful? You feel out of control, especially when events are unwelcomed or unexpected. These changes can alter your perspective on life. Your once cheerful attitude suddenly becomes negative. You begin to think about all of the worst outcomes. Sometimes more than one change can happen at the same time, and it feels like the dominoes are all falling with one push. Changes are a part of life. You can’t escape change. And when you’re unprepared for it, the change can cause you to worry about things you have no control over. Then stress takes over. So does panic, which can result in immobility and the feeling that you are stuck in one place. Along with the stress, you may not be able to think clearly.
Just as there are lists for the biggest life changes, there are lists for how to manage the stress that comes from them. Some ways to handle stress include:
Accept that life happens.
Adopt a more positive attitude which helps you adapt to the change.
Acknowledge the stress and find ways to control and eventually alleviate it.
Give yourself some time to relax and take care of yourself.
Remain calm.
Think positively.
Make a plan and take action.
Trust your inner wisdom.
Ask for help.
Going through life changes alone just adds to your stress and discomfort. Find someone who has been where you are going and ask them for guidance. Remember that change is unavoidable. And with change comes stress. Learning to plan for it, and managing it, is your best option. Find the support you need to make your journey through major life changes easier. Contact the experienced therapists at Clear Mind Counseling in San Diego today to schedule an appointment.