Despite what Hollywood might make you think, it is possible to enjoy your middle years without a midlife crisis.
What is a Midlife Crisis?
The term “midlife crisis” was coined in 1965 by psychoanalyst Elliot Jaques after he noticed a trend that during their middle years, people tend to realize their own mortality and that we can only do so much in our lives.
On average, midlife is generally considered to be between the ages of 40 and 60, and some experts think that the average age someone experiences a midlife crisis is around 47-48, while others argue it can start in the mid-30s. Heightened stress during midlife can take the form of the following signs and symptoms:
- Anxiety or stress surrounding age or mortality
- Alcohol or drug abuse
- Decrease in relationship, career or life satisfaction
- Irritability
- Loneliness
- Obsession with changing appearance, such as trying to look younger, an increase in exercise and dieting
- Questioning identity
Triggers for a midlife crisis can be anything from menopause to wrinkles or from the death of a parent to a personal illness.
How to Avoid the Midlife Crisis
Not everyone experiences a midlife crisis. Some people struggle more than others to develop a sense of personal identity or maintain a positive outlook on life. People may experience powerful life transitions at times other than midlife that trigger confusion about their identity or lead to self-doubt. Others may wonder if they are going through a midlife crisis or feeling symptoms of depression.
Follow these three steps to help avoid a midlife crisis.
Step 1. Acknowledge Your Feelings
If you start to feel like your life isn’t everything you wanted it to be or any other symptoms of a midlife crisis, acknowledge those feelings. Once you recognize that you are feeling a certain way, you can start to do something about it. The ultimate goal is to have the healthiest midlife possible, and that includes avoiding or breaking unhealthy habits, such as alcohol or substance abuse or unnecessary spending.
Step 2. Develop Your Sense of Purpose
A strong sense of purpose can help improve your life satisfaction. Some people who have a midlife crisis may feel that their best years are behind them, but this doesn’t have to be the case for you. Find ways to reconnect with your purpose in life and look for ways to be the best version of yourself now. This could take the form of setting new goals for your life, learning new hobbies or skills, meditation or traveling.
If you struggle to identify your sense of purpose or if you feel that life is meaningless, consider trying therapy or a support group.
Step 3. Nurture Your Relationships
Human beings are social creatures, and positive relationships can help us feel happier, find fulfillment and meaning in life and even influence our health. Making time for your friends and partner during your middle years can help stave off loneliness and bring you more joy.
Some people going through a midlife crisis may experience feelings of regret or sadness in their long-term relationships. If this is you, consider attending therapy or couples counseling.
Talk to a Professional
Learn more about avoiding a midlife crisis from your primary care provider. Make an appointment at stelizabethphysicians.com.
