It is back to school time once again. Fall is right around the corner. In fact, I was in Michael’s yesterday and saw sales associates setting out Thanksgiving décor! No matter how long I live, I am continually surprised at how fast time goes and quickly seasons change.

With school starting, many of you are transitioning into new life seasons. Those of you with kids are most likely gearing up for school, buying supplies and figuring out which extracurricular activities your children will participate in this year. You might be buying gifts for teachers or signing up to volunteer.

As the new school year begins, I am reminded of the emotional stress new life seasons trigger and how vital positive self-care remains at such times. Whether or not school is on your or your child’s agenda for the fall, you are probably facing some sort of new life season. If nothing has changed recently in your life, just wait longer. Things always change. It is the ebb and flow of our existence. 

As changes inevitably unfold we often experience feelings of anxiety, worry, doubt, fear and/or depression. We have trouble eating and sleeping and find ourselves forgetting all of our positive self-care techniques. We may overeat, binge watch Netflix or spend way too much time on social media.

So how can we maintain and continue to foster emotional health AND growth during challenging life transitions? Because after all, life really is a series of transitions—a series that can result in a truly beautiful and fulfilling life if the right choices are made along the way. We can weather change with wisdom and grace. 

As we begin new life chapters and shoulder transitions (good or bad), there are a few important things to remember:

1. Use your support system: Spend time with friends, family members, mentors and mental health professionals that provide you with the support, empathy and guidance you need during this time.
2. Focus on your physical health: Eat well, exercise and get plenty of rest. Don’t watch too much television or spend too much time on the internet. (This includes Facebook.)
3. Set boundaries: Decide what absolutely must be done and then make separate lists for what you would like or hope to do.  Note:  You may not get to the “like/hope to do” list for a while.  Communicate to friends and family members what you can and cannot do during your transition/new life season.
4. Be your best friend: Treat yourself the way you would want your best friend to treat you. You are human and this season will not last forever.

Whether you are getting ready for a new school year, getting married, having a baby, starting a new job or beginning any other new life season; an Orlando licensed mental health counselor can help you. A trained and experienced individual, couples or family therapist can provide the empathy, support and knowledge you need to not only survive, but thrive in your current season. Please contact Life Enhancement Counseling Services today at 407-443-8862 to schedule an appointment.