5 Clear Signs Of A Midlife Crisis And Effective Ways to Overcome It

midlife-crisis
Image Credit: Pexels/ Andrea Piacquadio

Middle-aged adults mostly experience a transition of identity called a midlife crisis. Such individuals start exhibiting ‘weird’ characters for their age. Studies posit that such individuals could be riddled with doubts. Consequently, this may lead them to act out.

What Is A Midlife Crisis?

People who go through midlife crisis are often between the ages of 40 to 50. Elliott Jaques, a psychoanalyst, originated the term. He claimed that midlife crises cause inner constraints. Although this crisis has no diagnosis, it is glaring to notice. Sources also posit that this crisis induces worry. This in turn leads to severe health complications.

What Causes A Midlife Crisis?

Aging and doubts in self-achievements stir this climacteric crisis. But it is caused by many other factors. This includes losing a job, aged parents, or a long-term relationship. However, studies have shown that not everyone goes through a midlife crisis. Despite some losses, a handful of people go through life feeling accomplished. Some may not even bother to spend time wondering about their achievement. They often enjoy the little things and take life one step at a time.

5 Signs To Look Out For

People react differently when going through a midlife crisis. But some tell-tale signs are hard to miss. These are:

Unbalanced Emotions

Feeling dejected, depressed, and not enough has been associated with this situation. This can cause a person’s emotions to be all over the place. It also affects their mood and eventually, relationships with people around them.

Creating a Barrier

Affected individuals would often form a barrier around themselves. This barricade is due to the dissatisfaction in their life. They may also distance themselves from the actual problem. Sadly, this barrier affects their relationships with spouses or kids.

Depression

The number one enemy of a happy life is depression. Depression stems from a lack of self-esteem and belief in failure. Going through a midlife crisis can make a person feel completely useless irrespective of their achievements.

Excessive Loss/Gain Of Lbs

Worry burdens the mind but it can have an impact on a person’s physical appearance. A person in such a situation will often gain or lose excessive weight even without trying.

Resounding Regrets

Constantly thinking about past failures or actions can be a sign of a midlife crisis. It could mean that the person isn’t happy with their life.

Overcoming Midlife Crisis

The first way to clear up a midlife crisis is by admitting the problem. Apart from self-awareness, one must possess a willingness to want to conquer a climacteric crisis. To live a midlife crisis-free life one should:

Appreciate The Present

Learning to live in the now and shunning regrets of the past helps to yield self-confidence.

Be Self Compassionate

Regardless of mistakes made, find ways to practice self-forgiveness. This leaves the heart feeling lighter.

Invest In Relationships

Rather than push people away, spend time with them. Enjoy social connections and find ways to improve.

Final Note

A midlife crisis isn’t a death sentence. However, it is a wake-up call to get back on track and live life to the fullest!

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