How to cope with transitions

We go through several transitions in life, some major ones and many smaller ones. Changing schools, starting college, moving to a new place, starting a new job, or a new relationship; are all major transitions. If you struggle during these times, you are not alone. The struggle in the face of transitions is quite universal.

Here are a few ways to cope with transitions:

Be prepared: Some transitions can be unexpected, but others are planned events. Prepare for it to the extent that is possible.

Be flexible: Sometimes your best laid plans may not work out, be ready and willing to adapt your plans.

Be kind to yourself: Expect the transition to be challenging. These times will test you. You may not feel like yourself for a while. Go easy on yourself and lower your expectations from yourself.

Take care of yourself: Self-care is important at all times, but more so during the stressful times. Make the time to unwind and rest.

Give yourself credit: Celebrate small accomplishments. Remind yourself of past successes. If that is hard to do, think about the times when others have appreciated you.

Prioritize: Big changes can be overwhelming. Try to focus only on the most important things that you need to do in a day. Anything that is not urgent can wait.

Avoid generalizing: Difficult times do not last forever, though it may seem like they do. You have had smoother sails and better times in the past and will again in the future

Accept what you cannot control: You may not have control over the situation or event, but you can choose how you react to it. Allow yourself to accept things the way they are and shift attention to what you can do about it.

Stay safe and healthy,

Dr. Sayanti Bhattacharya MD, MS