Life Transitions
I don’t feel as confident as I once did.
I lost my sense of flow and ease.
I feel like I made the wrong decision.
I wake up with dread most days.
I don’t know who I am anymore.
I am grieving.
I can’t measure up.
I am struggling to let go and accept.
I want my old life back.
I feel trapped and wish I could escape.
I should be happy but I’m not.
I wonder how I ended up here.
I feel like everyone can see how fragile I am.
Ironically, the only constant in life is change. A life transition, or alteration to our existing lifestyle, forces us to let go of our familiar past and face a new reality. Change typically accompanies feelings of stress, fear and discomfort regardless of its nature. The process of adapting may cause painful feelings to arise, take longer or be more complicated than we anticipated. As we attempt to cope, the difficulty of adjusting can threaten our ability to be present and impede growth. During times of transition, getting curious about change and ourselves in a non-judgmental and supportive space, like therapy, can improve coping and help us to become more grounded.
What are some common trauma-related disorders?
Starting or ending relationships
Reaching age milestones: turning 20, 25, 30, etc.
Reaching life milestones: engagement, marriage, pregnancy, parenting
Identity crises or questioning who you are: gender, sexuality, purpose, career
Diagnosis with a medical or mental illness, injury, having an accident
Changing or losing careers, jobs or roles at work
Significant external events: COVID-19, etc.
Moving or relocating
Losing a loved one or pet
What are some signs of life transitions?
Low mood or energy
Hopelessness, Powerlessness
Overwhelm, nervousness, anxiety
Irritability, anger
Diminished interest in pleasurable activities
Feeling regretful and nostalgic
Feeling numb and detached
Difficulty concentrating
Difficulty completing tasks
Difficulty functioning in daily activities and work/school
Destructive thoughts, self-sabotage
Withdrawing from relationships
Loss of sense of self and self-esteem
Changes in appetite and sleeping habits
Frequent headaches, stomachaches and colds
What are some signs of life transitions?
In therapy you will gain awareness of how depression is presenting in and impacting your life. Therapy will help you understand what may be causing and exacerbating your symptoms as well as any problematic habits or tendencies that have developed in response to your symptoms. You will also learn how to cope more effectively so you experience less symptoms and feel more confident, productive and in control.
Your therapist will complete an assessment, develop a personalized treatment plan and treat your symptoms using a combination of proven therapeutic methods. Start addressing your symptoms by scheduling your first session today.