Adjusting to Life Changes

Our experiences with abandonment and unwanted change are crisis moments when we must decide whether or not to leave behind the life that is gone forever. We can do that only if we believe in the ongoing creativity of God, who brings light and beauty to the dark chaos of our losses in life.

M. Craig Barnes
When God Interrupts

Sometimes life and circumstances turn on a dime, blindsiding us with change and loss we never saw coming. And sometimes life blindsides us with the very change we thought we expected when we thought we knew what to expect! We all experiences stress and uncertainty in the midst of change, but sometimes a person suffers such adverse reaction to—or an inability to cope with—life's changes, that one may feel confused and anxious, become emotionally undone, or feel unable to cope with a new reality.

Circumstances that might precipitate or trigger these feelings are:

• Relocation to a new city or living environment
• The end of a relationship
• Divorce
• A death
• Retirement
• Loss of one's home
• Diagnosis of an illness
• Reoccurring illness
• Marital difficulties
• Financial stressors

How does a person find their footing and adjust to the realities of change? Seeking therapy in the midst of significant life transition is an excellent way to regain stability and emotional well-being. A therapist can offer substantial support, help you understand the impact a change/crisis has had on your life, and also help you develop the skills needed to effectively cope with change and stress.

Therapy for life transitions may include but is not limited to:

• Alleviating distress from emotional and or psychological disturbance
• Improving coping skills
• Improving problem-solving skills
• Improving how stressful life situations are handled

Not only does seeking therapy during a life crisis or transition restore your equilibrium, it also promotes personal growth and change that can improve your ability to deal with disconcerting life changes in the future.