Adjustment difficulties surface during stressful periods, whether they result from expected or unexpected life events and changes for yourself or a loved one. Life’s surprises often bring feelings of confusion, being stuck or overwhelmed, or even a loss of identity. The stress that comes with adjusting to these changes can hinder your ability to engage in everyday routines and activities. If you’re in Melbourne and seeking mental health support for stress management during various transitions in your life, you’re in the right place.
We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to.
Stress management & life changes and when to seek support
Our experienced Melbourne psychologists can support you with stress management and through all kinds of life changes including:
- Divorce
- Relationship breakups
- Marital difficulties and chronic stress
- Disruptions in close relationships
- School-related changes and burnout
- Parenthood and becoming a parent
- Transition to independent living
- Returning home after college
- Career setbacks or shifts
- Relocation to a new city or country
- Retirement and loss of identity
- Chronic illness and physical health issues
Here are signs of stress and ways that life changes can impact the way you feel:
- Low mood and depressive feelings
- Feelings of sadness
- Anxiety-related experiences
- Low self-esteem
- Sense of hopelessness due to high stress
- Feeling trapped and devoid of alternatives
- Isolation and detachment due to increased levels of stress
- Irritability and mood swings
- Ongoing struggles with time management due to mental health issues
- Constant worry about health problems due to prolonged activation of the body’s stress response incl. high blood pressure and cortisol levels
Here are some ways that stress and significant life changes can impact your thinking:
- Worry and anxious thoughts
- Challenges with concentration and finding helpful coping strategies
- Preoccupation with stressors
- Negative or pessimistic thinking
- Difficulty making decisions
- Forgetfulness
- Racing thoughts
- Intrusive or distressing thoughts
Here are some ways that life changes can impact your behaviour:
- Sleep disturbances
- Outbursts of anger or disruptive behaviour
- Avoidance of stressful situations to find your safe space
- Withdrawal from social activities
- Increased use of alcohol consumption or substance abuse
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Restlessness or fidgeting
- Impulsivity or reckless behaviour
What are the signs of stress and symptoms that life change is impacting your child or adolescent?
- Irritability
- Depressed mood
- Sleep disruptions
- Decline in academic performance
- Social withdrawal
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Frequent physical complaints including headaches or stomachaches
- Changes in appetite or weight
Evidence-based treatment for managing difficulties with life?
At Positive Wellbeing Psychology, our Melbourne psychology practice offers evidence-based treatments designed to treat stress, including Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and relaxation techniques such as Progressive Muscle Relaxation and Deep Breathing. Our counselling services utilize a range of therapeutic approaches that fit the individual’s unique therapy goals. We recommend speaking to your GP to arrange a GP referral and mental health care plan to access up to 10 Medicare rebates per calendar year.
How can Positive Wellbeing Psychology help?
At Positive Wellbeing Psychology, our experienced Melbourne psychologists have a special interest in stress management and guiding individuals through life transitions using evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy.
Unexpected life challenges and transitions often bring stress and self-reflection. It’s natural to question your path, sense of purpose, and identity during transformative life shifts.
Make an Appointment
At Positive Wellbeing Psychology, we offer flexible appointments with our psychologists during the day, evening, or weekends, both in-person at our Melbourne psychology practice or online via telehealth.
Our team of psychologists hold full registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and adhere to ethical guidelines as mandated by the Psychologists Registration Board and the Australian Psychological Society. Our clinical practice is grounded in evidence-based treatment approaches to support individuals through significant life changes, various life transitions, and stress management within our Melbourne psychology clinic. Reach out to speak with one of our experienced online Psychologists in Australia using a secure telehealth platform, or in person at our Armadale psychology practice.
