Most of us are challenged by change. People living with mental health issues can often find change particularly difficult to cope with. Yet it is possible to try to anticipate life changes and take steps to prepare ourselves!
We can predict and prepare for some of the many “curve balls” that life will pitch at us. Starting a new course of study means that you can predict you will need money, time, stationery/computer access and mental had physical energy. Talking to someone who has done a course can help you anticipate things.
Other life events include a similar mix of positive and negative aspects:
- Leaving the parental home (or your kids moving out)
- Moving house
- Changing jobs
- Marriage
- Having children
- Predictable life stages (birth, illness, old age, death).
Plan what you can to prepare yourself for these life changes. Take steps now that will make these future events less traumatic for you.
Writing things down can be helpful. You could divide your life by headings that are relevant to your needs, such as a) Financial, b) Social, c) Physical, d) Emotional and e) Spiritual. Then list all of the things that you will need to do to support a smooth transition through each predicted life change.
Once you’ve devised your support strategies, write them down clearly in a "Go-to" book. This way, you can refer to your insights on a regular basis and ensure that you take care of yourself in all of these important areas.
You could also allocate a separate page for each area and make a note of when you actually carry out one of the activities listed. This is especially helpful when you feel things getting out of control. Your strategy book can also serve as a useful ‘Go To’ list of supportive friends or contacts to call whenever you feel you may need support.
Some changes in life create a challenge because they seem to leave us at a loose end. For example, if you leave a job, quit drinking or send off your child to start school, you may suddenly have a lot of ‘spare time’ on your hands.
While you might deserve a break, it is unwise to remain idle for too long. Instead, aim to maintain a regular routine which includes activities that you enjoy, while you plan your next move. Capture new ideas as they come to you, by writing them down in your Go-to book for future reference. That way you will keep everything in one place and won’t be lost for inspiration if challenges arise.
By Meredith, who used to access Flourish Australia’s Surry Hills service
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