Midlife Opportunities
By Jeannie Merrick, RNNP
Too often discussions of midlife for women focus on the physiology of menopause, and rarely are we given the opportunity to explore the psychological side of aging and our changing roles.
For many women, midlife is a time for personal reflection and celebration. Some women report a sense of well-being at this stage of their lives. Others find themselves examining the important personal relationships in their lives — thinking about their husbands, partners, parents or grown children.
Midlife presents many women with the opportunity to take stock of their careers and perhaps pursue new directions or professions. Some are drawn to community leadership roles, volunteering positions or other opportunities outside the home.
A spiritual sense of well-being is paramount during this time. Feeling an internal sense of peace is important, as is having the ability to unload “emotional baggage.” Some women find they are able to accomplish these goals by modifying or developing their belief systems and embracing a “higher power” or getting more involved in their church.
Too often discussions of midlife for women focus on the physiology of menopause, and rarely are we given the opportunity to explore the psychological side of aging and our changing roles.
For many women, midlife is a time for personal reflection and celebration. Some women report a sense of well-being at this stage of their lives. Others find themselves examining the important personal relationships in their lives — thinking about their husbands, partners, parents or grown children.
Midlife presents many women with the opportunity to take stock of their careers and perhaps pursue new directions or professions. Some are drawn to community leadership roles, volunteering positions or other opportunities outside the home.
A spiritual sense of well-being is paramount during this time. Feeling an internal sense of peace is important, as is having the ability to unload “emotional baggage.” Some women find they are able to accomplish these goals by modifying or developing their belief systems and embracing a “higher power” or getting more involved in their church.
It’s only natural that we experience psychological shifts as we grow older. A period of introspection or reflection can be a healthy outgrowth of midlife that helps us prepare for the years ahead.
Jeannie Merrick is a menopause practitioner, credentialed by the North America Menopause Society (NAMS). She is a member of the staff at the Fertility Center of Oregon, a specialty clinic of Women’s Care Physicians and Surgeons of Eugene/Springfield.
Jeannie Merrick is a menopause practitioner, credentialed by the North America Menopause Society (NAMS). She is a member of the staff at the Fertility Center of Oregon, a specialty clinic of Women’s Care Physicians and Surgeons of Eugene/Springfield.
