We are creatures of habit, and we do not usually like things to change a great deal.
We are often comforted by our routine and sometimes find it easier to stay with it than change something. Change is inevitable; sometimes it happens unexpectable, and sometimes it comes more gradually. However, anytime we go through a difference, it can be anxiety provoking and stressful. Whether you are moving to a new city, just down the street, changing jobs, getting a divorce or breaking a long-term relationship, or even going to college, these situations can all cause a great deal of stress and anxiety.
It is OK and normal to have some anxiety or concern about the changes and the impact this will have on our lives. Learning to cope with this anxiety is essential so you can better manage the situation’s stress and may even deal with the subsequent transition a bit better. Humans may be creatures of habit we are also incredibly adaptable.
So does this anxiety that comes from these situations have a specific name?
Yes, it does. Transitional anxiety is often used to describe the feelings of anxiety and stress that come from thinking about or going through a significant change in one’s life. A review of the literature shows that humans are a bit conditioned to resist change, and when we do not know what will happen, we become more nervous and anxious about things. Our brain has been wired to help us find safety, and we do not feel that even if there is no explicit danger, we are likely to feel anxious.
This anxiety related to the transition is likely to show up in many of the same ways anxiety shows up under other circumstances.
- Increased substance use
- Difficulty sleeping
- Withdrawing from others
- Irritability
- Change in eating habits
Tips on managing anxiety related to life transitions
Therapy for life transitions, of course, will be beneficial as it will help you to learn and improve all of the skills needed to become more adept at handling stress and anxiety.
Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) is very helpful in reducing anxiety as it helps not only with the thoughts about the situation it also focuses on actually doing small things to lower anxiety.
Getting Active
Exercising, going out for a walk or run, or going to the gym can help work off some of the immediate symptoms of stress and anxiety. Gardening is also wonderful for reducing anxiety as it will be physical activity, and it allows us to focus on something else that is positive. It will also help to improve health in other ways. Research from the recent pandemic shows the effectiveness of exercise and mental health benefits.
Practicing Self Care
Self-care this term has gotten a lot of attention lately; however, what I am referring to is being able to listen to yourself and know what you really need at this moment to feel better. That can be to sit quietly for 10 minutes it can be to go for a walk or spend time with animals or family or friends. It can also be taking a nap and getting a facial or massage. Self-care is different for each person and often different for different situations, so being able to recognize what you need at this time and giving yourself permission to take care of yourself is important.
Journaling is also very helpful
There is something about writing how we are thinking and feeling that it does give us relief and a release. The journal does not need to be fancy, and spelling and grammar are not important. This is a journal for you, and as long as you can read it is good. The important thing to do is be consistent with it. Pick a time to write in the journal on a daily basis, and then even if you have nothing to say, write that in the journal. The next day you may have several paragraphs to write or not. However, again, writing something each day at the same time will bring the most benefit.
Life is all about change, and being able to adapt to the changes that come with life is really important. Begin working with an anxiety therapist in Richmond, VA, Powhatan, and across the state
Learning skills to help with reducing stress is also important. If you find yourself dealing with a transition or change in your life situation, and maybe the methods listed above are not helping enough or you are just looking to be able to do more, please contact me to discuss how we find the right path for you during this time of transition. You can start your therapy journey with Gray Horse Counseling by following these steps:
- Contact me and schedule a free consultation.
- Check out my FAQs and read more about me
- Start listening to your body today!
Other Therapy Services Offered by Gray Horse Counseling
Life transitions therapy is only one of the various therapy services offered at Gray Horse Counseling in Powhatan, VA. We offer in-person appointments in Powhatan and online in Virginia. Our other services include individual therapy, anxiety therapy, group therapy, equine sports, clinical supervision, trauma therapy, EMDR, and depression therapy. Check out my FAQs, read about me, and contact me today to get the help you deserve!