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Let's Talk: Can Life Transitions Cause Anxiety?

We all can feel alone – and stressed out – when a life transition is on the horizon. Perhaps you're having your second baby or your youngest child is heading off to college. Maybe your daughter is getting married or your spouse accepted a new job overseas, so you're preparing for a big move. No matter what the situation, it's unique to you and your life – and that can cause uncertainty.

"Life's transitions can create stress and anxiety," says Dr. Geraldine Vehr, primary care physician at The Christ Hospital. "This can lead to difficulty with sleep, fatigue and going down a pathway where you need medical advice." 

Taking control of your life

If you feel overwhelmed and can't seem to get control of your life, don't worry – we've all been there. A few small tweaks in your lifestyle might have a significant impact on your overall health and well-being. Take a look at your daily routine and check out the following questions:

Women's health physicians at The Christ Hospital stand in front of a brick wall, for the Let's Talk program.

  • Are you exercising every day? Just a 10-minute walk around the block can help you clear your head and keep anxiety at bay.
  • Are you drinking water? Drinking coffee all day can cause the jitters – which ramps up anxiety. Make sure you're drinking plenty of water. Experts recommend eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day to prevent dehydration.
  • Are you eating healthfully? Healthy eating can be easier said than done, especially during an overwhelming life transition. Take a few minutes at the beginning of each week to menu plan healthy options. You'll feel more in control all week with a game plan.
  • How are you sleeping? Poor sleep causes fatigue, which can increase anxious thoughts and behavior. Try to be more intentional about your sleep habits – set a bedtime alarm, focus on winding down at the end of the night and limit your screen time, as it tends to keep our brains awake. Dim the lighting and try picking up a book on your bedside table instead. Reading can help you unwind and also help to quiet down your busy brain before bed. 

Making these small changes will help you exert control over your life – and in turn, hopefully help to keep that anxiety at bay. Sometimes, these habits aren't enough, and if that's the case, it may be time to schedule an appointment with your physician for additional support. 

Our team of primary care physicians are here to meet your healthcare needs. We care about your physical and mental well-being. Schedule an appointment online today with one of our primary care experts. Can't make it into an appointment? We offer e-visits for your convenience. Learn more about e-visits for primary care patients and be seen today from the comfort of your own home. 

Geraldine Vehr, MD, of The Christ Hospital Physicians - Primary Care, standing in front of a brick wall in a white lab coat.

​Dr. Vehr is board-certified and specializes in internal medicine. She provides comprehensive care to adult patients with a variety of needs, from occasional illnesses to managing long-term health issues. Dr. Vehr practices internal medicine at the Mt. Auburn campus at The Christ Hospital Physicians – Primary Care, and is president of The Christ Hospital Medical Staff.

Let's Talk: Can Life Transitions Cause Anxiety? Geraldine Vehr, MD, discusses life transitions and helpful tips to help you cope, in this webisode of Let's Talk.

We all can feel alone – and stressed out – when a life transition is on the horizon. Perhaps you're having your second baby or your youngest child is heading off to college. Maybe your daughter is getting married or your spouse accepted a new job overseas, so you're preparing for a big move. No matter what the situation, it's unique to you and your life – and that can cause uncertainty.

"Life's transitions can create stress and anxiety," says Dr. Geraldine Vehr, primary care physician at The Christ Hospital. "This can lead to difficulty with sleep, fatigue and going down a pathway where you need medical advice." 

Taking control of your life

If you feel overwhelmed and can't seem to get control of your life, don't worry – we've all been there. A few small tweaks in your lifestyle might have a significant impact on your overall health and well-being. Take a look at your daily routine and check out the following questions:

Women's health physicians at The Christ Hospital stand in front of a brick wall, for the Let's Talk program.

  • Are you exercising every day? Just a 10-minute walk around the block can help you clear your head and keep anxiety at bay.
  • Are you drinking water? Drinking coffee all day can cause the jitters – which ramps up anxiety. Make sure you're drinking plenty of water. Experts recommend eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day to prevent dehydration.
  • Are you eating healthfully? Healthy eating can be easier said than done, especially during an overwhelming life transition. Take a few minutes at the beginning of each week to menu plan healthy options. You'll feel more in control all week with a game plan.
  • How are you sleeping? Poor sleep causes fatigue, which can increase anxious thoughts and behavior. Try to be more intentional about your sleep habits – set a bedtime alarm, focus on winding down at the end of the night and limit your screen time, as it tends to keep our brains awake. Dim the lighting and try picking up a book on your bedside table instead. Reading can help you unwind and also help to quiet down your busy brain before bed. 

Making these small changes will help you exert control over your life – and in turn, hopefully help to keep that anxiety at bay. Sometimes, these habits aren't enough, and if that's the case, it may be time to schedule an appointment with your physician for additional support. 

Our team of primary care physicians are here to meet your healthcare needs. We care about your physical and mental well-being. Schedule an appointment online today with one of our primary care experts. Can't make it into an appointment? We offer e-visits for your convenience. Learn more about e-visits for primary care patients and be seen today from the comfort of your own home. 

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The Christ Hosptial