A midlife crisis is a phase of emotional and mental turmoil between the age of 40 and 65 in a person's life. This is a stressful stage, frequently associated with feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, and sadness. During this period a person may experience physical, emotional, and spiritual changes that are difficult to deal with. They may be overwhelmed by the prospect of facing the rest of their lives and doubt their achievements and sense of purpose.
Where Did the Concept of a Midlife Crisis Originate?
Elliot Jaques, a Canadian psychologist, coined the phrase following a time of self-questioning at the age of 36. The word first appeared in a paper, "Death and the Mid-Life Crisis," published in 1965. Elliot's efforts to define midlife crisis appeared in The International Journal of Psychoanalysis.
Signs Of Midlife Crisis
Common signs of a midlife crisis include
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Feeling stuck
- Boredom
- Loss of identity
- Fear of ageing and death
- Lack of direction, and difficulty making decisions
People may also feel disconnected from their families, friends, and communities and find meaning difficult. Individuals may experience increased substance abuse, financial problems, and marital or physical health issues.
Also read: Midlife Crisis Vs Depression: What's The Difference?
How To Deal With Midlife Crisis
Seek Advice From A Professional
Talking to a professional, such as a therapist or counsellor, is one of the greatest strategies for dealing with a midlife crisis. A skilled professional can assist you in identifying the root cause of your problem and provide the tools you need to deal with it.
Identify the Reason Behind Your Stress
It can be helpful to take a step back and identify the stressors in your life that may be contributing to your midlife crisis. Potential stressors include work, family, or financial issues. Once you succeed in identifying the sources of your stress, you can work on developing strategies to reduce or manage them.
Workout
Regular exercise can help reduce stress, improve your mood, and boost your self-esteem. Aim to get enough physical activity each day, whether it’s walking, swimming, or biking.
Find Time For Yourself
Make sure to take time for yourself and do something that brings you joy. This could be something as simple as reading a book or taking a long walk. Taking some time away from your everyday life can help you reconnect with yourself and make it easier to cope with your midlife crisis.
Also read: 7 Signs You Are Healing From Depression
Talk To Your Friends And Family
Reach out to close friends and family members for support. Spend time with those you love and who love you back, and allow yourself to lean on them for emotional support.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness can help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings as it focuses on the present status of your mind. Practising mindfulness can help you let go of negative thoughts and feelings and better handle your midlife crisis.
It is important to seek professional help if you are going through a midlife crisis, as it can be a difficult and confusing time. A therapist can help you identify any underlying issues that may be causing your distress and provide you with coping skills to help you through this transition period. Additionally, having a strong support system of family and friends can be invaluable in helping you get through this difficult time.
