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Midlife crisis: Have you experienced it?

What is the meaning of midlife crisis?

A period of emotional turmoil and self-reflection that people mostly ageing between 35 and 55 experience. People who experience midlife crises usually have a deep sense of dissatisfaction, regret, or fear related to ageing, unfulfilled dreams, changes in relationships, etc. It often involves questioning the meaning of your life, your achievements, and the goals you set for yourself.

Symptoms of midlife crisis:

Recurring desire for major changes in life.

Emotional instability and frequent mood swings.

Always concerned about your health and appearance.

Regretting the missed opportunities.

Impulsive behaviour most of the time.

Looking for new experiences and validating through them.


Coping mechanisms for midlife crises vary from person to person.

Healthy coping mechanisms:

Therapy and counselling—taking a professional's help to understand the mental state better.

Self-reflection—by writing in a journal, meditating, and trying spiritual healing ways.

Setting new goals—channelling energy into positive changes like acquiring new skills, starting a new hobby, or travelling.

Physical activity—exercising to boost mood and overcome the fear of ageing.

Relationship building—strengthening relationships with family and friends or looking out for new friends or a partner (if you're alone).


Unhealthy coping mechanisms:

Substance abuse, impulsive financial decisions, extramarital affairs, etc. Anything that further damages you emotionally or physically.

Do victims of midlife crisis usually have extramarital affairs?

No! Some individuals do look for fun outside marriage, but not everyone. This usually happens when:

- The victim feels the need for attention.

- If he/she is bored and dissatisfied with the long-term relationship.

- There's a desire to recapture youth and the excitement missed so far.


Conclusion: A midlife crisis is not a mental illness but a transitional phase. It may lead to personal growth rather than destruction through awareness and by receiving proper support.

Why did I post about this emotional state?

Lately I have been feeling lonely. Well, I have been lonely after the divorce, but by the grace of God, I haven't allowed the loneliness to affect me. I play video games (gaming* is my passion), watch TV, and enjoy evening strolls, but sometimes I do feel the need of a partner. I just wanted to know if I am experiencing a midlife crisis or not. Well, I found my answer. Thanks to the Good Lord, I am not going through it. I am not bored of life. I am just desiring a woman's love. I hope I find my soulmate soon. I have been single since 2022. I have faith in God. He'll answer my prayers.

*I play video games for entertainment. Competitive gaming, or becoming a pro gamer, was, is, and never will be my aim.
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Thanks to the Good Lord, I am not going through it. I am not bored of life. I am just desiring a woman's love

But the begging question is what makes playing video games any better? Playing video games needs that impulsive rush, can be financially destructive depending on the costs of the games, while my only other note is some of those "destructive" behaviours I swear you described are man-made in definition. For others it could be educational and growth, that's how much we vary as people.