Introduction
Life’s most significant changes – both joyful and painful – can be overwhelming. I recently witnessed this during a mediation involving a family enduring an exceptionally difficult period in their lives who missed a payment under a contract. Their overwhelming circumstances prevented them from recognizing the contractual obligations.
The Impact of Life’s Major Changes
It is easy to understand how such situations arise when individuals are consumed by life’s challenges. Events such as illness, the birth or death of a loved one, a recent wedding, or a divorce can each bring about significant emotional upheaval. Regardless of whether these changes are joyful or sorrowful, they have the potential to be both challenging and overwhelming.
Daily Distractions and Their Consequences
The distractions stemming from major life changes often interfere with our daily routines. Activities like reading mail, paying bills, and managing to-do lists can seem trivial in comparison and are frequently neglected. Unfortunately, the repercussions of overlooking these responsibilities can themselves become overwhelming.
Strategies for Coping and Seeking Assistance
When facing such difficulties, here are some strategies to consider:
- Ask for help: Reach out to your employer, coworkers, family, and friends. Let them know you are experiencing a challenging time and request their support.
- Accept help: When someone offers help, welcome their support and find specific ways for them to assist. Recognize that their willingness to assist stems from genuine care.
- Call for help:
- If you are struggling, you can call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), a free and confidential hotline available 24/7. This service connects individuals in need with counselors throughout the United States and its territories.
- Alternatively, text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the United States to connect with the Crisis Text Line.
- For local community resources, dial 211.
- In immediate, life-threatening emergencies, call 911.
Conclusion
Navigating life’s major challenges is difficult, often leading to distraction that causes both minor and major obligations to go neglected. By recognizing the impact of these events, noticing how daily tasks are affected and embracing practical strategies, one can better manage overwhelming times. It’s important to remember that that support is available, whether from family, friends and colleagues or from professional resources like 988 or 211. Asking for assistance is a sign of strength and allows others the opportunity to show that they care.