Life is full of challenges and obstacles for us to navigate along the way. Sometimes these events are positive, sometimes negative and a whole lot of in between. Even positive changes and challenges can present us with the need to adjust, and change can be hard even when it’s for the better. You may find yourself leaving school, beginning school, beginning a relationship, ending a relationship, moving, having children, not having children, the list of life transitions can go on and on.

With each life transition comes challenges. When change happens, you may find yourself cutting ties with what was familiar, which can leave you feeling confused, alone and perhaps even a little sad as you settle into your new role. Some of these transitions are planned and some may feel as if they are coming out of left field, either way, you may be left feeling alone as you try to adjust.

Transitions can be daunting even if, they are positive. They can present you with new challenges and struggles as well as opportunities. Though you may be feeling alone, you do not have to navigate through life’s challenges by yourself. Finding the right therapist/counselor can be the piece you need to adjust to these transitions in a way that works for you.

Understanding Transition and Major Life Changes

Living life can mean moving from one milestone to the next. It also can mean experiencing new challenges, meeting people, and leaving others. In each transition, some adjustments need to be made.

Humans have the intrinsic ability to adjust to changes. However, major transitions may mean letting go of a life that you are accustomed to and embracing a new one. This can make you feel uncomfortable. Your ability to adjust can be impaired when the transition is intensely challenging which can in turn destabilize your thoughts and emotions.

When this happens, the change can be extremely overwhelming and can be met with resistance. This can make major life transitions inherently difficult.

Major Transitions in Life Can Be Difficult

You may not be consciously aware of it, but you could be making a transition more difficult than it needs to be by resisting it. Resisting change can make adjusting more difficult for you. Change is inevitable, and you can have difficulty navigating through life if you resist it. Though change can be difficult, you can make it easier for yourself by getting support.

Adjusting on your own can be tough. Family and friends can serve as a support system, though it can be difficult for them to provide non-bias feedback. Seeing a counselor can be a great addition to your support system, even if they are spectacular.

When Can Difficult Adjusting Lead to Adjustment Disorder?

Adjusting can be so daunting and overwhelming that it leads to an actual Adjustment Disorder. This is a possibility when the circumstances overwhelm your ability to adjust.

Symptoms of adjustment disorder tend to begin within three months of a stressor or change. This can include depressed or anxious mood, changes in ability to function daily, panic, overwhelm, lack of enjoyment and changes in sleeping and/or eating habits.

If your ability to adapt has been impaired by an overwhelming change, you may engage in risky, reckless behavior or show other concerning symptoms.

Therapy for Life Transitions

Transitions and life changes can be incredibly overwhelming. When faced with these types of obstacles, work through them with a counselor or therapist independently contracted with Carolina Counseling Services — Pittsboro, NC.

Though change can be difficult, embracing it and moving forward with a skilled therapist can be empowering and even liberating. No matter what type of transition you may be facing, help is available. Call today and begin moving forward with CCS-Pittsboro.

Related Articles:

• Adjustment Disorder: Removing Barriers to Successful Life Transitions