Life Transitions:

All of us experience various life transitions. Life is a process we all move through with begins, middle, and endings. These transitions can be both positive and negative depending on where and when we experience the event. They can leave us with feelings that range from grief and loss to strength and triumph. At times, we are completely prepared for such significant changes and then there are the unexpected and uninvited events that leave us feeling lost and powerless. Some of the life transitions we do not always expect are:

• Losing a job
• Loss of a loved one, child, spouse, friend
• Chronic illness
• Divorce
• Accidents
• Loss of home or business to natural disasters
• Having a child with illness, or mental health issues
• Grandparents raising their grandchildren

Some of the life transitions we can anticipate are:

• Becoming an adult
• Marriage
• Changing careers
• Having children
• Retirement
• Children leaving the home, (Empty Nest Syndrome)
• Selling or buying a home
• Relocating
• Caring for our elderly relatives

Some life transitions are unique to our gender. Women experience menopause, while some men struggle with mid-life crisis, and retirement. Empty Nest Syndrome can affect both men and women, but tends to statistically affect more women.

Change is one of the few things that we can all count on to occur during our lifetimes. Seeing these changes as opportunities to learn and grow can at times ease some of the initial shock. Over coming fears of the unknown may lead to a deeper understanding of our selves and our potential in life.

These transitions can take time and often the process is painful and confusing. Turning the negative feelings into hope for the future takes understanding and support.

A trained experienced therapist from Wellspring Therapy Center can help you and your loved ones navigate these difficult Life Transitions.