Presented by BetterHelp.

Midlife crises are quite a common occurrence. But what exactly are they?

A midlife crisis generally designates a point in the middle of one’s life that is particularly challenging. Their may be difficulties involving marital problems, raising kids, financial troubles, or facing negative thoughts like a fear of one’s own mortality.

No matter what brings on a midlife crisis—and it’s often many things all at once—they can be really tough to overcome. In any case, they occur frequently enough that “midlife crisis” has become a common term in popular culture.

We don’t have to simply accept a midlife crisis, however. In fact, it’s much better to battle one and actively work on getting better.

But how should you handle a midlife crisis? What is the best path to take when you feel totally overcome by life?

You’re in the right place if you’re asking these sorts of questions because this article will provide you with four helpful tips on getting through a midlife crisis.

4 Tips for Overcoming a Midlife Crisis

First of all, if you’re having a midlife crisis—you’re not alone! Life can be hectic even at the best of times, and sometimes it may all just feel like too much. In middle age, the problems and concerns can quickly multiply, especially if you’re juggling work, a relationship, kids, etc.

The below sections will help give you some useful tips, whether it’s you or someone you know experiencing a midlife crisis. Plus, if you could use additional guidance, there are many helpful resources on the topic available online through platforms such as BetterHelp.

Chase Small Victories

To use a baseball analogy, every single at-bat won’t always be a home run. Every single day won’t always be the best one ever. Sometimes, we get too caught up in the idea of “success” and “achievement.” And when that happens, we forget about the little things.

Just think of New Year’s Resolutions. Most people aim too high and take on unsustainable challenges and inevitably give up after a month.

Instead, start small and feel proud about all the little things that you’re doing each day. Just getting through a day is plenty, so take things slow and chase the small victories.

Adjust Your Perspective

You might just need a perspective reset if you’re facing a midlife crisis. After all, it’s so easy to get caught up in our day-to-day worries. Compared to many people on this planet, however, our little problems are hardly problems at all.

While we may tend to get stressed and frustrated about traffic, work, family, etc., we can be grateful to have a car, a job, a family, etc.

Simply expressing a little bit of gratitude each day can do wonders for your mental health. Telling others that you appreciate them will also make their day. It’s a win-win!

Prioritize Yourself

Sometimes it’s easy to forget about taking care of ourselves. You may have a partner, children, pets, a mortgage, parents, work, and more all on your plate at once.

All these responsibilities can create a lot of stress. It’s important that you learn how to manage this stress by occasionally prioritizing yourself over everything else.

So, take a long bath. Eat some vibrant, rejuvenating food (colorful fruits, vegetables, grains, etc.). Put on your favorite record. Drive along the coast. Do some yoga or take a minute to meditate.

There are many ways that you can manage your stress and treat yourself at the same time. In the midst of a midlife crisis, it might just be exactly what you need to get through it.

Find Support

It’s normal to need support from others. Many of us are in denial, however, and tend to reject help. Getting over this mental block is one of the best things you can do in life.

Whether it’s a trusted friend or family member or a licensed counselor, be sure to reach out and get the support you need and deserve.

Conclusion

Midlife crises can strike suddenly and make the whole world feel like it’s falling apart. Eventually, however, you’ll make it through. Keep your head up, take care of yourself, and get the support you need.