By Kate Pinsonneault
“Mid-life Crisis” can happen when a person experiences several life transitions in the same period. Our fourth decade often marks a time when profound transitions impact how we see ourselves, how society defines us, our roles within our family, and our relationships with others. This is a time when people might be dealing with adult children leaving home, divorce, career changes, ailing parents, becoming grandparents, receiving a medical diagnosis, etc. When several transitions are happening in succession or overlap, it can be overwhelming and can feel like a crisis.
Life transitions often begin with a loss, but this is seldom recognized as we tend to try to adapt and move forward. It is important to pause and notice what has been lost. Sometimes it is a significant relationship, an aspect of ourselves, a path we thought we were on that has suddenly been diverted, or a loss or choice. Taking time to acknowledge these losses can often be an important first step. If we try to ignore it or rush through this, grief or sadness can surface unexpectedly. Grief mixed with overwhelm can shut us down at a time when we need energy to cope.
Life transitions can also force us to deal with issues that we are not prepared for. It can be beneficial to talk things through with an objective, caring friend, life coach, or counsellor. Finding resources to assist you and connecting with others who have “been there” will help prepare you for what is to come. It is important to know that you will get through this, and when you do, there will be a new beginning waiting on the other side.