Life Transitions

Adjusting to change can be difficult, regardless if the cause of the change is positive or negative. There are many emotions associated with navigating the stress of a life transition and therapy can be a safe place to process and understand these feelings, while learning effective coping mechanisms to navigate these changes. Those who are having difficulty navigating a life transition may benefit from speaking to a mental health professional to gain additional support during that time period.

Examples of Life Transitions

A life transition is any significant change that results in changes to personal roles, responsibilities, or routines. Life transitions may be positive and exciting, as well as distressing and upsetting. Some of the most commonly experienced life transitions include:

  • Going to college

  • Moving in with a romantic partner

  • Marriage/divorce

  • Loss of a loved one

  • Buying a home

  • Navigating serious illness or disability

  • Career change/promotion

  • Having a child

  • Retirement

How To Cope with Life Transitions

Coping with a significant life transition is not a one-size-fits-all approach. There are many interventions that may help address resulting mental health struggles and improve overall quality of life. A comprehensive approach to cope with a life transition may include one or more of the following interventions.

  • Lifestyle changes: As with most mental and physical health challenges, implementing healthy lifestyle habits can improve symptoms and overall well being for individuals living through a period of transition. Examples of healthy habits include developing a routine, practicing self-care, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and incorporating meditation practices. 

  • Therapy: Talk therapy can be an important space for individuals going through a transitional period to learn how to navigate feelings, learn healthy coping mechanisms, and work through cognitive distortions. Some common therapeutic modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness. 

  • Medication: Medication can be a pivotal component of treatment for mental health struggles that may develop during a time of transition. Some commonly prescribed medications for anxiety and depression include selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).

When should I see a professional?

If you or a loved one may be struggling navigating a significant life transition, it may be beneficial to consult a mental health professional, such as a therapist or psychiatric nurse practitioner. At Tree of Life Counseling Center in Princeton and Freehold, NJ, we have an experienced team of 50+ clinicians to help support you through whatever you may be facing. Schedule an appointment today by calling 732-393-8391 or filling out an online form at https://www.treeoflifecc.org/start-today