By: Natasha Archary
People generally associate a midlife crisis to sultry affairs, dressing differently and unusual purchases like sports cars.
But this tumultuous phase in adult life can bring about depression, remorse and anxiety.
Typically hitting adults around the age of 45, a midlife crisis is when people struggle with aging and want more than anything to feel youthful again.
It’s tough to transition to life in the late 40s for many who cling onto their disappearing youth.
For many, it’s the feeling that half their life is over and it may seem like they’ve not achieved most of the things they set out to.
Approaching a midlife crisis
According to researchers, not everyone experiences a midlife crisis and it is something that is a social construct.
It comes from being fed the idea that one has to have a “breakdown” around their 40s. Only 26% of adults reported having a “crisis” in their 40s and 50s.
Signs of a Midlife Crisis
Because it’s not an official medical condition, it’s difficult to pinpoint signs that indicate a person is going through this phase.
It’s also something that is more commonly linked to men than women.
With the changes to their relationships, the direction their life is taking and their position in the financial rat race of life, many start evaluating their life.
This often causes:
- Neglect of personal hygiene
- Dramatic changes in sleep habits
- Weight loss or gain
- Pronounced changes in mood, such as increased anger, irritability, sadness, or anxiety.
- Withdrawal from usual routine or relationships
Midlife is usually a time of intense reflection for many men who may have gone years without any commitment and may be questioning the value of their life based on this.
Data does suggest that many who go through this midlife phase so become happier later in life. There’s no timeframe for how long a midlife crisis lasts but it’s generally not longer than 2 to 5 years.
Also read: Thomas And Skhumba: Are you a cool parent?
