Middle age can bring a lot of mixed emotions for some individuals including anxiety and fear of their own mortality on the con side, and the feeling of freedom that often comes with finally being comfortable in their own skin on the pro side. Learning to manage and balance those emotions can be stressful, especially if you’re already dealing with a mood disorder or physical health issue. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to reduce the negative feelings and find positivity in your life. Start by utilizing a few tech tools to help manage your health goals, such as a communication app that allows you to stay in contact with your healthcare providers to work on solutions together. Take a look around McGraw Systems for more information.
When you’re ready to make some lifestyle changes in order to feel better, here are a few places you can start:
Talk it out
If the negative feelings have become overwhelming, it might be a good idea to talk to someone who can help. For those who feel uncomfortable with the idea of in-person therapy, online options are wonderful, and many therapists and counselors offer these virtual visits now. Not only are they often more cost-effective than in-person appointments, they are easier to book and are less of a commitment. You also won’t have to worry about managing costs for travel; in fact, the first session may not cost anything at all if the provider you choose offers a complimentary consultation. Consider researching counseling online vs in-person when you’re ready to set up a visit.
Connect with like-minded people
Even with the help of a professional therapist, it can be hard to get through a mid-life crisis if you don’t feel supported by your friends and family members. While you don’t have to stop interacting with your current friend group, it may be helpful to seek out individuals who are experiencing similar emotions or who have goals that are aligned with yours. Church groups and social media groups are two great places to connect with like-minded people and find a sympathetic, helpful ear when you’re having a hard time coping.
If your experiences have led to you isolating yourself from friends and loved ones, now may be a great time to reconnect with them. It’s not necessary to go into detail about how you’re feeling if you’re uncomfortable with the idea, but spending time with people you care about can be helpful for your mental health.
Learn something new
Another way to boost your mental health is to try something you’ve always wanted to do, whether it’s a one-time experience like skydiving or a hobby that requires learning a skill. Painting, cake decorating, woodworking, and playing an instrument are all fun activities that are beneficial for your mental wellness, and they can help expand your confidence at the same time. Want to make it even more fun? Ask a friend or loved one to try the new hobby out with you.
Use this as an opportunity
While it can be a challenge to view a trying time in your life as an opportunity, doing so can help you make the most of the situation. Think of this era as a small setback when it comes to your goals; how can you use that as motivation? If you’ve been wanting to travel, start a business, or make a big life change that affects your health in a positive way–such as quitting a bad habit–use this time as a stepping stone.
Managing a mid-life crisis can be an isolating act, but just remember that you are not alone. Millions of individuals have had similar experiences, and there is help available when you need to talk about your feelings.
Special thanks to Dana Brown for contributing to this article. She can be reached at: [email protected]
