You can recognize a crisis when your normal daily life changes and your life is suddenly called into question. Often such phases are accompanied by feelings of uncertainty or caused by fear of loss. In a crisis, negative thoughts, hopelessness and depression dominate. Symptoms of a life crisis can manifest themselves as follows: Fears about the future Hopelessness Sadness Uncertainty and self-doubt Searching for the meaning of life Mood swings and constant irritability Sleep disturbances Stages of a life crisis. A crisis may begin suddenly and abruptly or develop over a longer period of time. In a life crisis, a distinction is made between different stages: Denial Helplessness and hopelessness Acceptance of the crisis situation Overcoming the crisis and reorientation Restart Denial. Each person copes with a life crisis differently. Most of the time we don't want to admit that our beautiful life is changing. We find it difficult to accept losses or limitations. Therefore, the first phase of a life crisis is called the denial stage. Depending on the situation, this state can last several hours or days. Helplessness and hopelessness. Before we accept a crisis as an important breakthrough in life, we feel helpless at the mercy of the situation. Hopelessness defines our daily lives. We assume that we will not be able to overcome this crisis. Life suddenly no longer makes sense. Acceptance of a crisis situation. Accepting a crisis situation is the first step to overcoming a crisis. When you begin to accept the crisis, it will be easier for you to find solutions. Overcoming the crisis and reorienting. Change is often necessary to overcome a crisis. Refocusing is an important process that will help you leave the past behind and overcome a life crisis. Restart. After the crisis has stopped bothering you, a new chapter in life begins. Even if you don't like change, a new start is a chance to set a course for a better future. Sincerely, psychologist Alena Batueva.