When Life Changes Course: Helping People Navigate Transitions
Significant changes - such as transitioning from military to civilian life, retirement, or entering recovery - can impact a person's mental health and suicide risk by challenging their core identity.
Veterans may feel lost without their military role, retirees may question their purpose, and people in recovery may wonder where they fit socially.
Navigating these changes, even the seemingly positive ones, can bring up feelings of unpreparedness. That sense of not feeling ready can feed anxiety and uncertainty and contribute to increased distress and suicide risk.
Here are some ways to navigate helping someone through the transition in each stage of the SafeSide Framework.
- Connect: Try questions like “How do you describe yourself now?” or “What do you share with others about this phase of your life?” Asking in this way can help individuals reflect on how their identity is shifting and what it means for their well-being.
- Assess and Respond: Identify foreseeable changes and develop contingency plans. This helps individuals feel more prepared for potential future challenges.
- Respond and Extend: Economic struggles can happen during life transitions involving employment or income changes. Ask about financial planning and refer the person to a financial counsellor or other agency as appropriate to address any unmet financial needs.
It is essential to cultivate social connections, especially in periods of transition. Talk with the person about potential sources of support, like community groups, online platforms, or engaging with family and friends to strengthen support in their day-to-day life.
Takeaway: Start by exploring how someone thinks and feels about their life transition - their sense of identity, readiness for change, and social connections. This deeper understanding will help you provide the right support when they need it most.
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