“My world is falling apart, you think I should get over it and it’s all in my head! Is this what you think of me?!” I heard these words spoken years ago on a soap opera from some older woman having, as she called it, a “mid-life crisis.”

What’s the hype about? Midlife crisis, nervous breakdown, stressed out, overloaded… ‘having an episode.’ We’ve all heard these terms, but how realistic are they?

Definition of a nervous breakdown includes a sudden period of overwhelming sadness, anxiety or panic attacks and a feeling of being out of control. Some or all of these symptoms may be present. This is not typically a medically accepted term however the general idea is well known by most people and therefore helpful when someone is able to site their feelings using this description.

Midlife crisis? This term is generally accepted and commonly known as a time in one’s life, usually in the early to late 30’s through late 50’s when one becomes dissatisfied with their life. There may be a sudden urge to ‘crawl out of your skin’ or perhaps you gradually grow restless and discontented and end in a state of severe depression and anxiety. Nothing seems the same. You’re not the same, they’re not the same. Where has life gone?

No, you’re not going crazy. (they aren’t going crazy!)

Helpful tips:
1. Don’t pass blame – it’s not your fault nor anyone else’s
2. Allow others to lend their support – it has been shown in numerous studies and in my own experience that those with a good support system heal and overcome obstacles much faster than those without them.
3. Don’t expect for transformation to happen overnight
4. Allow yourself (or them) some space
5. Remember moderation – take the time to think over your decisions, your current thinking patterns, whether alone or in the company of someone you trust to be nonjudgmental and supportive regardless of how you feel. Making hasty decisions during this time could prove futile a few years down the road when things have settled again.
6. Don’t neglect your passion ~ whether you find joy in fishing, drawing, reading, going to church, praying or riding your bike. Maintaining your faith, spirituality, and/or ‘me’ time will be that stable spot in your life where you can retreat.

Use your resources! Whether you are curious for yourself or about someone else, get educated, and be informed. Remove the fear with knowledge and empower yourself.