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6 Most Stressful Life Changes and How to Cope with Them

Updated: Feb 9, 2022


Life throws all kinds of curves at all of us. For example, for the past two or so years, we've been all going through a pandemic and dealing with the stress any way we can. However, there are some kinds of stress not everyone experiences. The key is finding a suitable way to manage your stress and cope with it. In the rest of this article, we'll go over the six most stressful life changes and how to cope with them. We hope at least some of our advice will help you.


Death Of A Loved One

It doesn't matter if it's a significant other, a child, a family member, or just a close personal friend, the death of a loved one is widely considered the most stressful life change. When a loved one passes away, it might feel as if your world is crumbling around you. However, rather than burying yourself in day-to-day duties, it's critical that you take some time off to grieve.

After it happens, you should find appropriate outlets to help you cope with the sorrow, such as exercising, meditation, or other group activities. Moreover, don't forget to take care of yourself;eat well, and get enough rest.

If you have trouble coping with loss due to overwhelming emotions or daily life, you may need the assistance of a grieving support group or a professional counselor. But don't put too much pressure on yourself. You will get better when you get better. In the meantime, try everything you can to keep a positive attitude towards life.


Divorce

Divorce and separation are usually considered the second most stressful life changes after the death of a loved one. Even if both sides of the couple want to terminate the relationship, it's still a highly stressful situation. For example, in divorce, there are various emotional and legal issues to address, such as financial issues, living arrangements, and possibly even child custody.

Even if both sides saw the divorce coming a long time ago, when it turns into reality, it can shake up your whole world.

One way to cope with the stress of divorce and separation is to surround yourself with a strong support system. Find friends and family with whom you can talk freely and openly. Keeping a tight bond with your friends and family even in stressful times is one of the main strategies to finding happiness. Moreover, if you have children, talk to them about it. Although it seems hard to open up about that kind of stuff with your child, it will help them process everything that's happening if you're straightforward with them.


Moving

Moving to a new home is another one of the most stressful life changes. The worrying doesn't just suddenly start on moving day; it starts months before. The moment you decide to move to a new home and start looking for a new house or apartment, the stress starts and builds up over time. Then there's the packing and unpacking, as well as the search for new schools, stores, etc.

It can all be a bit too much without even mentioning the emotional stress of moving: the feeling when you have to leave the place where you lived for years. It's tough to say goodbye to all the memories you created in your old home and start adjusting to your new one.

However, when it comes to moving, there's a more or less simple solution to minimize your stress. When moving, you can hire movers and let them take on the burden while you take some time to relax. Most reliable movers will take care of everything on moving day, and you can take that day off to relax and prepare for the unpacking part. After everything is done and you move into a new home, you will be able to feel the stress melting away as you get used to the new place.


Job Loss/Change

Both losing your job and transferring to a new place of work are some of the most stressful life events. We grouped them together, although they're drastically different and carry different kinds of worries. For example, if you just lost your job, you're probably wondering how you'll pay your mortgage and take care of your family on a tight budget. Most of your stress comes from financial troubles and from having to start applying for jobs again. On the other hand, starting a new job comes with a lot of exciting opportunities, but also with some stress. If you're starting at

a new company, you're probably anxious to meet your coworkers and fit in and are worried if you will be able to fulfill your new boss' expectations.

In both of these cases, the one thing you can do to ease your stress is to make yourself stop overthinking. Stop yourself from spiraling too far. Instead, focus on setting clear goals for yourself. By controlling your mindset, you can stop worrying and start working towards achieving your career fulfillment. However, do not put a strict deadline on this. Work towards your career goals without stressing out if you're taking too much time.


Major Illness Or Injury

A significant sickness or injury can take away your ability to do the activities you used to like and/or hinder your ability to work. To cope with this, you'll need to discover new methods to occupy your attention. For example, you may need to find a new hobby that fills you with excitement. It does not have to be anything elaborate. Even watching a TV show that you enjoy is an excellent way to distract yourself. Of course, this is in addition to the emotional assistance you require.


Transitioning From Childhood To Adulthood

Adults are not the only ones that experience stress. Actually, your adolescent years are a period of major transitions that can be quite difficult to manage. Usually, teens are concerned about various issues, including social pressure and first romantic relationships, all while dealing with bodily changes. On the other hand, there are also academic expectations, hectic schedules, and poor sleeping and eating habits that can all contribute to a lot of stress when growing up.

A good way to cope with this kind of stress is to make sure you're maintaining a healthy balance. Sleeping and eating enough is just the first step. To deal with this stress, most teens need someone to talk to, whether a peer or an understanding parent. So, if you're a parent, be there for your child and don't make them feel like they're overreacting.


Final Thoughts

Although we covered what we believe are the most stressful life changes and offered ways to cope with them, the truth is that this list varies from person to person. Moreover, the best way to cope with stress also varies from person to person. There is no one-size-fits-all kind of answer when it comes to human emotions. However, what most people can agree on is that putting additional stress on yourself at a critical time can only have adverse consequences.


Meta description:  Have you ever wondered what are the most stressful life changes? Read this article to find out and learn the best ways to cope with them.

For details on de-stressing after a move read this article: https://www.statetostatemove.com/destress-after-move/


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Need a life lift? We are here to help you optimize your life and your career. A few free tools: grab the Growth Mindset pdf.: 5 Shifts to Success, schedule a free breakthrough session . Learn about private coaching or join a women's group coaching for support and guidance.

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