Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Life Changes and Mental Health
- Sailing Through Life Changes
- Summary
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
We get it! Life changes can be hard, sudden and overwhelming. While our physical health is affected by it, our mental health is also affected by these life changes, through the way we choose to deal with them. Whenever we face a difficult situation in life, or go through something unexpected, it often becomes difficult for us to deal with it, or at times, even accepting the change.
We often end up resisting the change. While this resistance may feel like the only option - it can actually make it even harder for us to accept reality and to find a solution, or be okay with any kind of change. In this blog, we will be exploring about why we end up resistant to change and how our mental health is affected as well.
Life Changes and Mental Health
Change is not easy and it is often unexpected. It may shake your whole world at times, give you existential crisis or even lead to doubting yourself. But what makes us resistant to change? It is the discomfort that comes with it and also the fear of the unknown. You tend to not know what will happen next, if things will go as planned. All of this can lead to the feeling of being overwhelmed and stressed. This affects our mood, emotion, cognition as well as our behaviour.
Resisting life changes can drain us emotionally. It can stop us from experiencing the possibility of growth, leading to a feeling of stagnation.
Sailing Through Life Changes
Well, we may not necessarily sail through the changes at times..but hey!, we can definitely try to. Change can be hard, especially major life changes, but there are ways to deal with these changes and to embrace them as much as we can. Let’s look at some of the ways.
- Give yourself the time to accept the change. Give yourself the time to understand what has happened and to take some time to process the feelings that come up.
- Find meaning in the change. Finding your purpose can help you accept the change in a better way and make peace with it, rather than resisting it.
- Stay open and flexible to change. It may come and usually comes unexpectedly, but being flexible and being open to the idea of change.
- Seeking support for your mental health. Talk to a professional and seek help, speak to the therapist, understand strategies to cope with this change.
- Focusing on your emotions can help you understand what are the feelings that are coming up. Most importantly, focus on what you can control.
Summary
Life changes, whether expected or sudden, can feel overwhelming and difficult to navigate. These transitions impact both physical and mental health, often leading to resistance fueled by discomfort, fear of the unknown, and a sense of instability. Resisting change, while natural, can intensify emotional exhaustion and hinder growth, leaving individuals feeling stuck. However, with self-awareness, flexibility, and intentional coping strategies, it is possible to embrace and adapt to life changes.
FAQ
Why do we resist change? - Change can be difficult. We often resist change because things tend to become uncomfortable, and we try to avoid change.
When should I seek professional help during a life change? - It is important to seek help when you are in emotional distress and when it starts affecting your daily life.
How can I find meaning in a difficult life change? - Try and understand the lessons learnt during this change which will help you finding a purpose, a meaning to keep going!
Conclusion
Change is an inevitable part of life, and while it may be challenging, it also brings opportunities for growth and self-discovery. By giving yourself time to process emotions, seeking meaning in the change, staying open and adaptable, and reaching out for support, you can transform life’s transitions into empowering experiences. Remember, navigating change is a process, and it’s okay to seek help when needed.
