Traditionally, it was believed that the midlife crisis only occurred with men, and it usually was not treated as a big deal. These days, the female midlife crisis is acknowledged. It is not something that only men go through anymore. The things a woman experiences are similar to men, but only to a point. The male version is centered more around the intense fear of getting old and everything that comes with it, while a female's experiences are related to her identity and purpose.
A midlife crisis for a woman is more about an identity. During their adult years, their lives are full of family tasks, raising children, and managing the home. Eventually they gain more time and freedom. It is at this point a woman comes to realize that she no longer has an excuse for putting off the things she wanted to get accomplished in her life. Sometimes she will even question her own morals and beliefs that have been established for the majority of her life.
Generally, a female midlife crisis can occur anywhere from the mid to late 30s through the 60s. It often coincides with menopause, which can also be a trigger. This is the period of life when the family dynamics change because the children are growing up and leaving the home. Life-altering changes such as a divorce or death can be a trigger as well.
Each woman's experience will be different, not just because of the physical differences but because of the differences in life choices. Despite this, there are a few symptoms that commonly occur, which are typically grouped into stages. Shock, anger, denial, and depression are experienced, followed by acceptance. There is not a general order these stages follow.
Depression can cause feelings of hopelessness, lack of energy, and changes in eating or sleeping habits. Anger often leads to blame, typically directed at spouses, for not getting enough accomplished. Denial is often experienced in the beginning, as women make excuses or do not want to address their feelings.
There are many behavioral changes that can come with a female midlife crisis. Dissatisfaction with almost everything and unease or restlessness can cause women to appear distracted, nervous, and disheveled. Many sufferers will make decisions on a whim, such as buying things that are not needed or suddenly quitting a job. It is also common for sufferers to be overly concerned with looking younger and will often try to dress younger or wear makeup to hide their aging.
Out of character behaviors can also include certain activities. A woman in the middle of this conflict may decide to engage in dangerous things such as jumping out of plans. She may also choose less dangerous things such as going out more. Friendships and other relationships may also be changed.
If you or a loved one is experiencing a female midlife crisis, it is important to understand that the sufferer is the only one that can change things. Communication, particularly about feelings and how to address things, is important. Instead of pushing people away, use the relationships with loved ones. Self-medication with alcohol and illegal drugs can easily become a problem. Before this occurs, seek medical or psychological professional help. The goal is to avoid alienating yourself from the people you are close to, which can contribute to the feelings of inadequacy and depression.
A midlife crisis for a woman is more about an identity. During their adult years, their lives are full of family tasks, raising children, and managing the home. Eventually they gain more time and freedom. It is at this point a woman comes to realize that she no longer has an excuse for putting off the things she wanted to get accomplished in her life. Sometimes she will even question her own morals and beliefs that have been established for the majority of her life.
Generally, a female midlife crisis can occur anywhere from the mid to late 30s through the 60s. It often coincides with menopause, which can also be a trigger. This is the period of life when the family dynamics change because the children are growing up and leaving the home. Life-altering changes such as a divorce or death can be a trigger as well.
Each woman's experience will be different, not just because of the physical differences but because of the differences in life choices. Despite this, there are a few symptoms that commonly occur, which are typically grouped into stages. Shock, anger, denial, and depression are experienced, followed by acceptance. There is not a general order these stages follow.
Depression can cause feelings of hopelessness, lack of energy, and changes in eating or sleeping habits. Anger often leads to blame, typically directed at spouses, for not getting enough accomplished. Denial is often experienced in the beginning, as women make excuses or do not want to address their feelings.
There are many behavioral changes that can come with a female midlife crisis. Dissatisfaction with almost everything and unease or restlessness can cause women to appear distracted, nervous, and disheveled. Many sufferers will make decisions on a whim, such as buying things that are not needed or suddenly quitting a job. It is also common for sufferers to be overly concerned with looking younger and will often try to dress younger or wear makeup to hide their aging.
Out of character behaviors can also include certain activities. A woman in the middle of this conflict may decide to engage in dangerous things such as jumping out of plans. She may also choose less dangerous things such as going out more. Friendships and other relationships may also be changed.
If you or a loved one is experiencing a female midlife crisis, it is important to understand that the sufferer is the only one that can change things. Communication, particularly about feelings and how to address things, is important. Instead of pushing people away, use the relationships with loved ones. Self-medication with alcohol and illegal drugs can easily become a problem. Before this occurs, seek medical or psychological professional help. The goal is to avoid alienating yourself from the people you are close to, which can contribute to the feelings of inadequacy and depression.
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