Not everyone experiences a midlife crisis. A research in the US reported that only 26% of its participants experienced midlife crisis. In fact, some researchers believe the notion of the midlife crisis is a social construct. And it’s the belief that you’re supposed to have some sort of crisis in your 40s that leads some people to say they experience some sort of an emotional turmoil. Whether it is a social construct or a phase in life, we still need to deal with it.
What are some healthy ways to cope with a crisis and get through to the other side? It is important to relook at your priorities, your purpose and the direction you want to take in life. Ask yourself, what gives meaning to life right now for you? (Use our value cards to find out). Work on a vision board with loved ones and have fun with it. Take long walks and keep asking yourself, “what do I want?”, without pinning down on an answer.
A study in 2016 showed that people in this crisis have high curiosity. Use this resource to learn more skills, take up a hobby or join community groups. Learn to acknowledge your negative emotions, take a good look at them and find what’s underneath those feelings. Challenge limiting beliefs and self sabotaging thoughts. In order to avoid adding to your problems, be sure to eat a healthy diet, get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and do other things to keep your body functioning at its best. Also, try to do some things you normally enjoy, like seeing a movie, reading a good book, or gardening in order to relieve some of the stress that you’re going through. If the emotions are unbearable, find a therapist, someone you can talk to or a support group who are facing the same issues. Remember that you are not alone and that you are loved.