WHAT IS A MIDLIFE CRISIS?

The pervasive belief that happiness declines as we age can spark a midlife crisis

Aging is a process that can feel uncomfortable and vulnerable for some individuals and cause feelings of depression, anxiety, and sadness as they struggle to cope with this new identity. Midlife is a period of transition, yet not everyone experiences a midlife crisis. This challenging period is marked by conflict between one’s perceived self and the desire to become an idealized self, which can leave us searching for purpose in life.

 As you age into midlife, you may experience feelings of nostalgia about the past and what could have been. Some people experience feelings of emptiness or feel that life is no longer fulfilling and satisfying. Oftentimes, people who experience a midlife crisis may make rushed, impulsive decisions that may damage their relationships in an attempt to quickly escape negative and intense feelings. Individuals may also make dramatic changes in their appearance and behavior which may seem uncharacteristic to those who know them well.  

WHAT YOU MAY BE EXPERIENCING

• Feeling unfulfilled in life

• Feelings of boredom, emptiness or meaninglessness

• Feeling an overwhelming sense of loss

• Impulsive decisions

• Dramatic changes in behavior or appearance

• Intense focus on or neglecting outward appearance and personal hygiene

• Intense feelings of nostalgia, frequent reminiscence about the past

• Changes in mood such as anger, anxiety, irritability or sadness

• Withdrawal or isolating from social activities, work responsibilities, or relationships

• Dramatic changes in sleep habits

• Weight loss or gain

• Thinking your best years are behind you

• Feeling hopeless about the future