Finding Yourself Again After Midlife Changes

We have all heard the stereotypes of a middle-aged man, suddenly quitting his job, buying a red sports car, having an affair, leaving his wife for a younger woman, and many more examples, but what does a midlife crisis look like? The truth is that a midlife crisis can look different for everyone, and it exists for women as well. Although the data shows that 15% of men experience a midlife crisis, there are a significant number of women who experience it as well. It is reported that a midlife crisis typically happens from ages 38 through 50, and can have a variety of symptoms. It is normal for that age range to bring a period of self-reflection, but it does not have to lead to an all-out crisis.

Let’s take a look at the most common symptoms for someone entering a midlife crisis:

Significant Change

Sometimes this is a change in eating habits, or sometimes it is a change in sleeping habits. If you are constantly feeling fatigued and feelings of pessimism or hopelessness start creeping in, it is probably time to talk to someone.

Losing Interest

If you are experiencing a loss of interest in things you once enjoyed, like your hobbies, or even sex, it could be an indicator of a midlife crisis. These experiences may also come with feelings of guilt, helplessness, worthlessness, or “buyer’s remorse”.

Infidelity

Having an extramarital affair is a stereotypical but common symptom of a midlife crisis. As stated above, when feelings of worthlessness, pessimism, or even boredom creep into your life, it can leave you vulnerable to making unhealthy choices like an affair.

Other Unhealthy Choices

During this age, it is common for your children to be leaving the home and feeling less emotionally close to family members. It is common to have feelings of disappointment with career choices and experience burnout. Within this phase, you may try to compensate for that by suddenly quitting your job, buying a new sports car, changing your style drastically, etc.

It is common to hear of people handling these symptoms in some extreme ways, like extramarital affairs, trying to feel more successful, or feeling disconnected in a relationship. If you believe that you or someone you love is experiencing a midlife crisis, you’ll need to practice a lot of patience. Midlife crises don’t resolve quickly, but with patience, a lot of progress can be made when you receive professional help. Life on the other side of the crisis can be a good one.