Dear Chris,

I feel unhappy a good part of the week, very little enthusiasm for anything. I have two kids, a husband, and a home - a part-time job which I don’t like but can’t get anything else in this economy. I love my husband but I wouldn’t say we are too attracted to each other. My kids are great but caring for them is overwhelming. How do I turn my life around? Penelope T

Hi, Penelope, I can hear that your life is feeling pretty over-whelming right now and I am so glad that you are asking the question, “How do I turn my life around?”. That is a good start and it’s a big question. There can be many reasons for having low energy and enthusiasm for life. Here are some general ways to think about your situation:

• Have you experienced any major life changes, such as a death, a move, financial distress, etc?
• You will want to rule out a depression, by talking with your doctor or a mental health professional. You can take a quiz on depression here.
• Is there an underlying physical problem that could be contributing to your lack of energy?
• Are you spending enough time doing things that bring you pleasure, such as, hanging out with friends, listening to music, working on a hobby or special interest?

You have been through many normal life transitions, such as, getting married, buying a home and having children. It may be that as these transitions recede into the background you are poised to enter a new transition of finding out who you really are, separate from husband and kids. This can be a confusing yet exciting time. As you develop awareness about why you may be feeling as you do, it would be good to take time for yourself on a regular basis to begin to discover your wants, needs and desires. Talking with friends, reconnecting with nature and journaling are some tools that can be quite helpful during the process of self-discovery. Also, talking with a professional mental health therapist or coach can be helpful.

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