Women aged 40 to 60 have the highest rates of depression, it might be a midlife crisis.
Though most symptoms of a midlife crisis are the same in men and women, women are less likely to suffer from anger issues or irritability. For women, it is more tearfulness and grief striking them.
Though most of the time, a midlife crisis is defined by an age range of 45 to 65, rarely a midlife crisis can occur before 45 and beyond 65 years.
What is a midlife crisis?
A midlife crisis is the feeling of discontentment, unfulfillment, emptiness, and meaninglessness. It’s a desire to change things so strongly that people often make drastic changes on the spur of the moment.
Research on midlife crises in women found that this might stem from the various social, psychological, and biological challenges. The phase of menopause coupled with an empty nest, changes in physical appearances, loss of a loved one or loss of identity, health issues, or terminal illness are often the triggers of a midlife crisis in a woman.
Another clinical research found that issues like financial insecurity, health issues, family conflicts, and lack of good social networks also contribute to a midlife crisis. Studies found that women noted changes in their eating habits, sleeping habits, recreation, mood, and desires during such a crisis. Some even reported depression, anxiety, fear, aggression, and lack of motivation.
Also read: How women over 35 can look younger?
Understanding the midlife crisis in women – Why it happens?
Menopause and midlife crisis
When women enter their menopausal phase, their estrogen and progesterone decrease. This fluctuation in their hormones results in physiological changes like fluctuations in sleep, mood, and sex drive.
Also read: Managing mood swings during menopause
Emptiness and midlife crisis
The role of women in our society has always been that of giving and caring. She cared for and nurtured her family, and took care of the house and her husband. She barely had time for herself, her routine was always jam-packed. But as mid-life approaches, her children move out, she no more connects with her husband( in the majority) and her life no more makes sense.
Also read: Overcoming the angst of Empty Nest Syndrome
Changing appearance and midlife crisis
Women are always more conscious about their bodies than men. So, when their bodies begin to age, they may lose their self-esteem and self-worth as well. They are more critical of their looks than men which can take a toll on their mental health during their mid-life.
Also read: Resentment in relationships
Symptoms Of Midlife Crisis
Sudden gain or loss in weight
A midlife crisis may mimic the symptoms of depression, and a drastic change in weight is just one of them. Sudden weight gain or loss may be an indication of an emotional crisis.
Also, read proven strategies for beating depression
Physical pain could be a manifestation of an emotional crisis
Many women experience headaches or gastrointestinal issues due to the emotional turmoil of a mid-life crisis. Intense migraines are a common complaint in mid-life crises.
Also read: Benefits of Ayurvedic moon milk
You’re not sleeping enough
Menopause, depression, and hormonal changes might cause difficulty in falling asleep. Studies suggest that the waning levels of estrogen can also result in sleep disruption and insomnia.
Also read golden tips for superior sleep quality
A constant feeling of boredom or loss of interest
Boredom can also be a sign of a midlife crisis. Feeling passionless or stuck in life are also common thoughts during mid-life. The best possible solution to this is to explore, experiment, and discover new interests. A midlife crisis can also be an opportunity for self-discovery.
Also read: Combatting boredom
An urge to make rash decisions
More often than not, men and women find themselves in a scoop of rash and irrational decisions. Perhaps they tend to end their marriage, change their job, move to a new location, or make an expensive splurge, which is not always a bad thing. However, it is always better to talk it out and think it through.
Also read: Mastering the art of communication
How to deal with midlife crises in women?
A midlife crisis is often a phase that passes without intervention. However, having the right knowledge and support system can help in dealing with this phase in a much more positive and better way.
Connect with fellow women
Most of the time, women feel lonely and hopeless because they think they are alone in this situation while everyone else is living their best lives. This comparison adds to the pain. But opening up to people and sharing the load can help each woman get through this phase.
Also read: Secret to a Happier Mind
Seek professional help
The need for therapy is often undermined. Talking to a counselor or a psychologist can help in understanding and processing thoughts, feelings, and emotions in a better way. This will also help you get clarity and acceptance of your past, present, and future.
Also read: Ashwagandha for women
Build your social armor
Research shows that having a strong, positive, and motivating social network is the key to a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life. However, it is very important to stay away from toxic people and choose only those who bring happiness to your life.
Also read: Midlife makeover: Strategies for beating middle-age weight gain
Take care of your physical health
Changing appearance is one of the major reasons why women feel bad about aging. Flabby arms, bulging stomachs, and loose skin are some of the most visible changes in the body. Taking good care of your health, working out regularly, drinking enough water, and doing yoga and meditation can help in delaying or reversing the tell-tale signs of aging.
Also read: Power of yoga: Discover the incredible ways it can improve your mind, body, and spirit
Practice gratitude
Recent studies have shown that practicing gratitude can help in dealing with negative emotions, stress, depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Maintaining a gratitude diary and writing at least 3 things that you are grateful for can help in changing your state of mind.
Also read: Health benefits of keeping a gratitude diary
Your Takeaway!
Midlife crisis in women is a real thing, but it is not necessarily a bad thing. Many women find a new meaning to their lives at this phase, they turn to spirituality and self-care. However, it is always good to have a strong support system that can make this transition a lot easier and better.
