Just How Powerful is Life Transition Counseling?
Have you ever wondered why you struggle at different points in your life, specifically around critical events? Why does this happen to so many people? Learn why a life transition, even one you've looked forward to, can be difficult to accept.
In its most basic form, a life transition is a period of change during a person's life. Examples include becoming a first-time parent, or a child leaving home to attend college, or get married. Likewise, it can be unexpected events such as the sudden death of a loved one or a traumatic car accident. Whatever the scale or severity, every life transition we go through has one thing in common: it is an adjustment phase.
This article breaks down the different aspects of a life transition. We'll highlight why life transition counseling may be a powerful way to help you move into your next chapter of life.
Why Counseling or Coaching May Help As You Face a Life Transition
A life transition typically marks the end of one chapter of life and the start of the next one. This can be followed by a period of self-reflection that, ideally, leads to a new beginning or perspective on life. However, it can also ignite the cycle of grief. As a result, this can leave you in unfamiliar territory. Overwhelming feelings of fear, doubt, and uncertainty can make the transition more challenging.
Every new stage of life can present the need to abandon a prior way of thinking or doing. In this sense, we are given the opportunity to replace the old way of being with a new way. However, when we are in the midst of change, we are more prone to feel uneasy and uncomfortable. Loss of an old way of life can lead to a disconnection from our surroundings and even within.
At times, people can get stuck in a life transition. For example, you may begin experiencing debilitating emotions that, at times, can feel like you're spiraling out of control. This is when counseling may save you from taking a dramatically different route.
Some may turn to drugs, alcohol, or other unhealthy behaviors to alleviate the emotions that accompany a life transition. Rather than reaching for your vice, there may be a better way. Meeting with a professional therapist may provide you with the support you need during this time. Likewise, therapy may help equip you with the ability to process this change. You'll also have someone in your corner to help you move through this phase of life.
Why Can a Life Transition Be Difficult to Handle on Our Own?
A life transition can be difficult to adjust to because it involves change, whether consciously or unconsciously. Regardless of how wonderful a change is, it can cause us to feel concerned and uneasy. This may be a result of our inherent instinct for self-preservation. Likewise, every fiber of your being may seem programmed to reject new or unknown change. On some level, the idea of being in the dark can be hard to accept.
For many of us, retirement seems to be a wonderful time in life. It's a life transition many look forward to with great anticipation. After all, it's at that time when we'll finally be able to sit back and enjoy the fruits of our labor. On the contrary, it's a major shift in everyday life. Likewise, saying goodbye to coworkers and friends can feel like a loss. As a result, it can bring about rather complex emotions. For example, you may wake up questioning life outside of work. This may impact your self-esteem and identity. Unresolved thoughts and feelings can lead to depression.
Many other circumstances can lead you to question your identity and impact your self-esteem and self-worth. Any life transition can bring about challenges, even if it's a perceived positive change.
If you feel stuck in the emotions of a life transition, you are not alone. Seeking help from a licensed counselor may be a great solution. Ash Blanton may be able to help you adjust and manage everyday life as you strive to find your way into this new phase of life. Reach Out Today To Learn More about Life Transition Counseling!
