Life Transitions

Change is tough, and life transitions – such as moving to a new area, transitioning into or out of a relationship, adjusting to parenting for the first time, or changing careers – can be difficult.

It’s normal to feel a certain amount of stress during these types of transitions. You are adjusting mentally and physically to a new normal, which can be uncomfortable or unsettling.

However, sometimes transitions can get in the way of a healthy lifestyle and feelings that accompany them can become serious.

Mental Health & Life Transitions

“Life transitions” is not a mental health diagnosis in and of itself, but problems can arise while adjusting to changes that can lead to diagnosis, including:

• Major depressive disorder
• General anxiety disorder
• Substance abuse disorder

Examples of Life Transitions

There are many life transitions that may result in the diagnosis of a mental health disorder. Some scenarios include:

• A new relationship/marriage or divorce
• The birth of a child
• Financial struggles
• Illness or a death of a family member
• Moving
• Losing a job

Signs of Trouble Adjusting

Difficulties adjusting to a life transition may cause symptoms similar to those during other stressful experiences.

These may include:

• Insomnia
• Low energy
• Low moods
• Headaches
• Upset stomach
• Frequent colds and infections
• Significant decrease of sex drive
• Either loss of appetite, or increased appetite
• Feeling generally overwhelmed
• More anxiety than usual
• Tendency to socially isolate one’s self
• Irritability

Periods of acute stress—like significant lifestyle changes—can also exacerbate mental health problems among individuals with psychiatric disorders like anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders.