How Major Life Transitions Affect Mental Health
Life transitions — whether expected, like starting a new career, or unexpected, like loss or illness — can deeply affect our sense of stability. Even positive changes often carry stress, grief, or identity shifts. It’s natural to feel “off” during these times, as our nervous systems react to change and uncertainty.
Common reactions may include anxiety, disrupted sleep, irritability, or questions about identity and belonging. These are not signs of weakness, but normal human responses. With awareness and supportive practices — such as mindful routines, balance between solitude and connection, and allowing space for grief — we can navigate transitions more steadily.
Therapy offers a safe space to explore these emotions, strengthen coping tools, and reflect on what’s ending as well as what lies ahead.
When Words and Feelings Don’t Line Up: Why Communication Breaks Down in Relationships
Many couples say, “We just can’t communicate.” Often, though, the real issue is a mismatch between what we feel inside and what we express outwardly. One partner might say “I’m fine” while clearly upset, or criticize when what they really want is closeness. This disconnect — what psychologist Carl Rogers called incongruence — can quietly erode trust and intimacy.
Therapy helps couples notice these patterns and practice more authentic communication. Even small moments of honesty, like saying “I feel hurt and I don’t know how to say it well,” can strengthen connection far more than polished but disconnected words. Over time, learning to align words and feelings fosters safety, trust, and deeper intimacy.