Toni Braxton

Everyone knows someone who is experiencing the dreaded midlife crisis. It is that stage when adults who are nearing 50 or over 50 begin dreading the loss of youth.

A midlife crisis is an inner conflict between our declining youth and our advancing maturity.

Some women (your blog auntie included) easily transition through the midlife crisis stage.

But other women who have depended on their looks rather than their intellect tend to have the most difficulty adjusting to life after 40.

According to Psychology Today, women who suffer the most from midlife crisis tend to be successful women who are high achievers, i.e., celebrities, doctors, nurses, scientists, CEOs, journalists, narcissists, etc.

“It is possible that women without careers go through significant explorations each decade as well. However, self-sufficient women fall down a deeper rabbit hole.”

How do you know if you are experiencing a midlife crisis? Most women don’t realize it until a friend says, “You’re going through a midlife crisis!”

Signs of a midlife crisis include:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Spending more time in the mirror
  • Excessive retail therapy (overspending)
  • Dating younger men or women
  • Changing habits
  • Changing job fields (downgrading)
  • Dressing too young for your age
  • Driving expensive sports cars (men)
  • Comparing yourself to younger co-workers (women)
  • Feeling lonely
  • Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
  • Seeking out younger friends
  • Considering plastic surgery
  • Obsessing over your looks and hair
  • Sudden interest in hobbies
  • Changing sleep patterns
  • Insomnia


    • If you are experiencing a midlife crisis, talk to friends who might be going through a similar experience. Don’t try and “tough it out on your own.” Find a non-judgmental friend who is also interested in personal development. A good lifestyle coach can help as well.

    Here are some questions you might explore together:

    1. What do I feel I should have done by this time in my life?

    2. Is there something more important and fulfilling that I can focus on now?

    3. What do I want more of in my life? What have I imprisoned that is crying to be free?

    4. How can I ensure my commitment to living a significant life?

    Above all, don’t let people tell you that you have no right to be unhappy with your life. It is okay to lose your equilibrium when others think your life should be smooth sailing. It is okay to question your life’s purpose. It’s okay to say, “I don’t know who I am.” It is better to ask the questions and seek the answers than to live a numb life.

    This has been your Medical Minute. Take care of yourselves.

    More Info On the Web

    Midlife Crisis Women

    What a Female Midlife Crisis Looks Like

    Midlife Crisis: Transition or Depression?

    DISCLAIMER

    Any medical information published on this blog is for your general information only and is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice. You should not take any action before consulting with your personal physician or a health care provider. Sandrarose.com and its affiliates cannot be held liable for any damages incurred by following information found on this blog.