If you are happy with your status quo, change is the last thing you would want in your life. Unfortunately, life may not always comply with your wishes, and now you may be dealing with a major change. Whether it be graduating college, getting a new job, moving into a new neighborhood, or all of them at once, you may experience difficulties during transitions.
For example, if you intend to move into a new home, it may be hard for you, especially if you have lived in your current location for many years. You may need to go with the flow with your friends, family, or employer in some situations. You may suddenly get fired, your friend may lose a loved one, or your boss may assign new responsibilities.
Talkspace knows dealing with some of the changes can be traumatic for many people. Fortunately, there are several ways you can get through them. According to some stress management and coping theories, there’s no such thing as a difficult life change. Transitions will be as stressful or not, depending on your perception.
When they occur, they reflect several factors, and how you interpret them will determine their impact on your life. Despite the challenges you may experience due to new situations, they may push you to grow and lead to amazing relationships and experiences. Here are some tips for dealing with life transitions:
Practicing Self-Care
According to Talkspace, this is crucial, especially during a transition. In between the changes, ensure you take some time for yourself. While self-care may differ from one person to another, it involves several general practices. First, you should get enough sleep.
This is because sleeping affects emotional regulation, neurotransmitters, and stress hormones. Some of the effects of inadequate sleep include difficulties in making decisions, solving problems, and controlling emotions.
Another self-care technique is exercising regularly. You can work out solo or with a couple of your friends. Journaling is also an effective self-care technique. A journal will be a visual representation of your feelings. A mental health expert can also recommend engaging in activities that bring you joy.
Balancing Your Relationships
As you navigate through transitions, you should try to build new relationships. This can be with your colleagues or neighbors. They can help you to build a network in your new environment. It may be overwhelming for you. However, remember that your current friends were strangers at one point.
At the same time, staying connected to your old support systems is also critical. This is because they know you well and you are comfortable when around them. If you are not in the same place as your loved ones, you can stay in touch through calls or social media.
Patience Pays
In some cases, you may be tempted to “fast forward” through some life changes, wanting to be in a position where you feel comfortable. However, patience is crucial in such incidences. Depending on what you may be going through, you are unlikely to be at ease within the first few weeks.
How long someone deals with transition challenges will vary from one person to another. For most people, this takes up to three months. If you feel depressed after six months, then you should consider seeking help from a licensed therapist at Talkspace.
