A traditional mid-life crisis was defined in the 1970’s (studies show 80% of people had one) as occurring between 40-55 in both men and women. It’s was a time when advancing age triggered a realization of the passing of youth, a decline in physical health and a fear of death.

 It was often associated with/caused by hormonal changes, empty nest syndrome, unhappiness with job, divorce, death of a close family member and a realization that youthful goals won’t be achieved. This caused the individual to become introspective and examine all areas of their life including family, friends and career. 

This was frequently accompanied by thoughts of self doubt along with questions of "what if” and "am I really happy?” This led to major life changes for some but most folks came through this eventually with a new, happier view of the world, more realistic expectations and an acceptance of who and what they are as they finally, gracefully accepted growing old.

The traditional midlife crisis is now becoming obsolete based on modern studies. Numerous studies since 1990 show no definable "mid-life crisis” while others peg the rate as low. The question is why?

• Education and insight: Most people today start examining who and what they are at a much younger age. They tend to be more philosophical and realistic. The rising divorce rate at a younger age, frequent job changes and a desire for immediate gratification are all examples that we aren’t going to wait 20 years and wake up one day and realize, "I’m not happy”.

• Better health: 40-55 really was the transition to old age 40 years ago. Now with a better diet, more exercise and better medical care all leading to longer life spans, middle age for many can carry into the late 60s or beyond and the added wisdom at that age makes a crisis less likely.

• Better treatment options: for the hormone imbalances caused by menopause and andropause.

• Better mental health: Recognition and treatment for depression and willingness to see a mental health professional for counseling to deal with stressful issues like empty nest, death of a relative or a problematic marriage.

• Over use of the term "mid-life crisis”: The stereotypical behaviors that come to mind have actually brought awareness which has caused a decline in the condition as nobody wants to be labeled as "That guy/girl”

With that being said, a small percent of the population will suffer some type of crisis. Steps you can take to avoid becoming a statistic center around making your life the happiest it can be now:

• Get healthy: If you’re healthy you have more energy to do/accomplish the things you want to do. The big 3 of diet, exercise and sleep become more crucial as we age. 

• See your Doctor: Have an annual physical to make sure some hidden medical problem is not causing a problem.

 

• Talk, talk, talk: Address problems as they occur with work, spouse, kids, family friends. Don’t let little things build up over time to become a major life issue.

• Financial planning/discussion: Disagreement over money is the number 1 cause of marital discord, divorce and unhappiness in romantic relationships.

• Like your job: Those that are more satisfied/fulfilled with their job are happier over all.

• Have lots of connections: Those with 10 or more friends/close relatives live on average 7 years longer than those with 5 or less. They also get sick less and are happier.

• Mental health professional: Be willing to see a therapist/psychiatrist if needed to deal with a loss, empty nest, marital problems or depression.

• Acceptance: You can’t turn back the hands of time no matter how hard you try. Rather than becoming a participant in our youth obsessed culture, embrace the power that comes from experience, wisdom and knowing yourself which are all benefits of age.

So there you have it, another casualty/benefit from our modern, fast paced, narcissistic world. The only question now is with the mid-life crisis on the way to extinction, what will take it’s place?