LIFE TRANSITIONS

Even positive life transitions can be challenging for several reasons. A life transition represents a change from what we were accustomed to previously. Even if we would call this a “good” change, the process of getting adjusted to a new routine can take effort and energy. In response to a life transition, people often feel stress. Some stress helps you feel motivated to take on challenges and make forward progress. However, stress that continues for an extended period of time can negatively impact you emotionally, physically, and mentally. This makes a transition even more difficult to navigate

Changes and life transitions that happen unexpectedly and have a direct impact on our daily lives can be very challenging to cope with. For example, accidents, job loss, and pandemics can happen without much warning. Ultimately, when we are caught off guard by a life transition, it is challenging to navigate because we haven’t had the chance to prepare. COVID-19 and our need to change the way we live, work, attend school and parent has created tremendous stress for many people.

Here at Kennedy Counseling our therapists are experienced in working with many types of transitions and the accompanying stress. Meeting with your therapist and processing the feelings around the changes mitigates the stress and can help you take on the challenges that life transitions bring.

Meanwhile keep in mind that when possible it can be helpful to try to plan for your transition. This may involve outlining a plan for the logistics of your transition or setting a helpful mindset. Try to set the reasonable expectation that you will likely feel stressed and overwhelmed at times. It’s also helpful to remember that feeling stressed during transitions is completely normal! Establishing a routine can help you adjust to a transition. Consider creating morning and evening routines to facilitate a sense of consistency. Regular sleep and wake times, a daily walk, meditation, or intention-setting for the day can be great additions to your routine. Develop helpful self-talk and recall transitions (or other difficult situations) you’ve successfully coped with before. They can be a reminder that you can manage this too. Stay connected to family and friends for social support and practice self compassion as change is difficult and most likely things will not go perfectly.

We all experience life transitions, and some are harder than others. If you find yourself experiencing a high degree of distress during a life transition that is significantly impacting your mood, ability to work, social interactions, or any other important life area reaching out and and scheduling a consultation with one of our compassionate therapists will help you feel grounded and reduce the impact of the stress you are experiencing.