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Late Bloomers-Finding Yourself Later in Life with Therapy.

Navigating midlife transitions – How can therapy help Late Bloomers find clarity.

By Ana Brown B.A Psychology, Mental Health Content Writer. Reviewed by Dr. Pascale Piron , Psy.D., M.A., LCPC.

I live in a major city and cannot escape driving on highways. If I don’t take the highway then it takes me forever to get anywhere. But even with faster roads and GPS, sometimes I make the wrong turn, or there is an accident which slows traffic down and I arrive late. It happens. It’s life, for some reason or another some of us arrive at our desired destination a bit later in life.

Many circumstances in life can delay us from achieving our full identity and personal goals before our 50’s or 60’s. Some of us choose to follow common paths such as a career, marriage, children and all of these events that can take up most of our young adulthood. Most of us spend years trying to build a life so focused on family and careers that at some point we forget our own identity and what is true life purpose. It’s very common to experience feelings of loneliness, loss of identity and lack purpose after children grow up and move out, after retirement, divorce, death of a loved one, a serious medical issue and many other life changing moments.

The term “Late bloomer” for adults can be described here by Wikipedia:

A late blooming adult is a person who does not discover their talents and abilities until later than normally expected. In certain cases retirement may lead to discovery.”

Midlife can be a difficult transitional for many people and can negatively impact one’s mental health. Some stressors associated with midlife stage are:

Increased risk of depression
Increased risk of anxiety
Hormonal alterations
Perception of failure
Adjustment difficulties
Cognitive changes
Loneliness
Social Isolation
Body image issues
Financial hardships
Aging parents
Empty nest syndrome

Science and technology has come so far in the last century extending our life span much longer than our great grandparents could have ever imaged. This very notion should prompt us to believe that middle age no longer means old. Some of our abilities and talents although pre-wired in our brains take years to fully come to fully develop. According to an article by Scott Barry Kaufman published on the magazine Psychology Today about late bloomers “In the brain, information gets passed through wires called axons. Helping the wires deliver the information is a fatty coating called the myelin sheath. Myelin speeds the transmission of information, but knowledge itself, and the proliferation of nerve connections and circuits by which we access it, depend on the acquisition of experience. And that takes time. Humans don’t even reach their peak myelin volume until their 50’s.“

In summary, late blooming should be a time when we all feel self-confident and prepare to start our second chapter in life and embark in new adventures and enjoy all the results of the hard work put into our careers and family in our younger years. What research shows is a different reality, the majority of late bloomers are faced with many challenges during a mid life transition. One of the main struggles late bloomers face, is finding themselves or a new identity later in life. After years dedicating our lives to others or careers, or perhaps having experienced traumatic losses, it can be difficult to navigate alone a new journey of self-discovery during a new stage in life.

Self-discovery is an ongoing journey not a destination.

Seeking professional help from a psychologist can help clients discover their full potential and utilize a lifetime of experience into a new season of blooming into their true selves.

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HOW CAN THERAPY HELP LATE BLOOMERS FIND THEMSELVES :

Some of us have spent years being parents and caregivers, professionals with a full time career, but these roles may have come to an end, whether your children have grown up or it’s time for retirement. The loss of a lifetime identity can result in several mental health struggles and therapy can shine so much light into anyone’s path crossing these life transitional phases. Additional topics that therapy can help late bloomers with:

Understand untapped potential
Explore new identity or identify confusion
Address fear of failure
Encourage personal growth
Improve relationships
Build authentic confidence
Find new purpose in life
Reevaluate societal expectations of success

SOME TYPES OF THERAPY FOR LATE BLOOMERS:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps clients recognize negative thinking patterns and behaviors that may result in low self-esteem and feelings of failure.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Improves emotional regulation, increases distress tolerance and promotes healthier relationships.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing(EMDR): Helpful for clients processing trauma from their past.
Family Therapy: It helps individuals improve communication skills, reduce conflict and help late bloomers understand their new path and family dynamics at a different stage in life.

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, always seek professional help immediately. Please call 911 or the suicide prevention lifeline at 988 or go to your local emergency room for immediate medical attention.

Find a therapist here

Therapy can empower clients to take on new careers, hobbies and interests giving them new purpose and meaning. Having something positive to look forward to and discovering what truly makes us happy later in life prepare us for a healthier and a more fulfilled time during the late blooming years.

Personal fulfillment in later years can be achieved through self-discovery and owning your own time line for success. Let go of society unrealistic expectations that we all must follow the same path to success and personal achievement. We are all unique and will have to face different challenges in life. Embracing your uniqueness and allowing yourself to start a new chapter can be incredibly rewarding. Therapy can offer a safe space for clients to reflect, grow and transform themselves into their better versions later in life.

Life transitions are only opportunities to learn and conquer a new identity. A new chance to reinvent yourself, this time with a wealth of knowledge, a decreased chance of making mistakes and the joy to know that aging is a privilege to be cheered not feared.

Every season in life brings a bloom of new chances to finding the new you.

You are never too old and is never too late.

Be kind. Be brave. Be well.

Always with love,

Ana Brown

Ana Brown is a Mental Health Content Writer.
She holds a B.A in Psychology and speaks English,
Portuguese and Spanish. She believes in healing
ourselves through meaningful connections.

Ana Brown

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HELPFUL LINKS:

https://emergepg.com

https://apa.com

Best Ways to Cope with Anxiety

Finding meaning in the second half of life by James Hollis, PH.D

The power of purpose by Richard J. Leider

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – Call or text 988

Crisis Text Line – text HOME to 74141

DISCLAIMER:

The content of these webpages and blogs and information provided is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition. Seek professional help immediately if you are experiencing a mental health crisis or any other medical condition.

Postpartum Challenges and Mental Health Support from Therapy.

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Dealing with postpartum depression and anxiety? Learn how can therapy support new mothers overcome emotional challenges after childbirth.

By Ana Brown B.A Psychology (she/her). Reviewed by Dr. Pascale Piron, Psy.D., M.A., LCPC (she/her).

April 04, 2025.

she strolls around the park with her new baby, she watches the other moms play with their kids, smiling, giggling and she smiles back. Her baby sleeps peacefully on their way back home, she has a loving partner, a supporting family, and the dream of being a mom just came true. But for a while now, she feels disconnected from her own child, overwhelmed with sadness instead of the happiness that everyone expects new moms to feel. She cries alone ashamed of her own feelings, scared to share and be judged. Afraid she is not capable of caring for her child. She simply cannot bond with her baby.

Postpartum depression does not discriminate against backgrounds or socioeconomic status. It can happen to any mom and it is a serious condition that needs professional support.

WHAT IS POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION (PPD)?

The The Cleveland Clinic defines postpartum depression as “a type of depression that happens after you give birth.Postpartum depression doesn’t just affect the birth mother. It can affect surrogates and adoptive parents.”

It’s normal to experience “baby blues” after childbirth, but if you are experiencing severe and prolonged sadness or loneliness, constant mood swings and crying, extreme irritability and difficult regulating emotions, and other symptoms listed below, you may have postpartum depression.

POSSIBLE CAUSES OF POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION:

There are multiple causes associated with the onset of postpartum depression symptoms. It is a complex condition that requires medical and psychological support. Some possible causes are but not limited to are:

Hormonal changes/alterations : During pregnancy reproductive hormones increase tenfold followed by a dramatic drop in hormonal levels such as estrogen and progesterone right after childbirth . Hormone levels should start normalizing after 3 days of giving birth. If the leveling fails the drastic alteration can result in important and sudden mood swings as well as depression.
Life stressful or unexpected events: death of a loved one, extreme financial hardships, divorce , extreme loneliness, lack of support from family, friends and a community, medical life threatening conditions.
history of mental health disorders: there is an increased risk of developing postpartum depression if client has previously been diagnosed with depression or anxiety.
Relationship issues: childbirth and relationship difficulties can be overwhelming when experienced at the same time. Having a new born baby at home and having to deal with serious issues with a partner, can greatly increase the risk of developing postpartum depression.
Physical or psychological trauma: such as domestic violence or traumatic childbirth, or any other event threatening to the physical and emotional integrity of the parents, family or the child.

SYMPTOMS OF POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION:

Sometimes postpartum depression may be misdiagnosed as baby blues, which can put the lives of the new mom and baby at risk. It’s important to know the different and when to get professional help.

According to The Mayo Clinic the most common long lasting symptoms (more than two weeks)that can be an indication of postpartum depression include but are not limited to:

Depressed mood or severe mood swings
Constant crying
Feeling disconnected from your baby
Social isolation
Changes in appetite
Insomnia or sleeping too much
Overwhelming tiredness
Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed
Intense irritability
Anger
Fear you’re not a good mother – shame and guilt
Hopelessness
Lack of concentration
Anxiety
Panic attacks
Serious intrusive and negative thoughts of harming yourself or the baby.
Recurring thoughts of death or suicide.

You matter.

Don’t allow shame or guilt prevent you from seeking support.

BABY BLUES SYMPTOMS:

John Hopkins Medicine lists the following common symptoms of postpartum baby blues which are common to up to 85% new moms, and contrary to the postpartum depression symptoms, baby blues symptoms only last a few days to a week or two after childbirth, and they may include:

Anxiety
Constant crying
Restlessness
Mild and temporary depression

Postpartum depression can last for months even years, John Hopkins reports one study shows that 25% of participants were still experiencing depression three years after having their children. This is an important alert to seek professional help right away.

It is important to note that every mother will experience postpartum depression in a different way. Postpartum depression can range from mild to severe and seeking help can save people’s lives.

If you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, or have recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, seek professional help immediately. Talk to your doctor and your therapist to determine the best course of treatment for you.

HOW CAN THERAPY SUPPORT NEW MOTHERS DEALING WITH POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION AND/OR SEVERE ANXIETY:

Childbirth is one of the most stressful and scary event in anyone’s life. Yet, it is expected that parents be joyful and happy immediately after holding their babies for the first time. But the truth is, after all those months filled with expectation, reality sets in, that you now have the biggest responsibility of your life, taking care and raising another human being. Anyone can use extra help, especially if this excitement turns into fear, sadness and confusion. Seeking help is an act of love for your child and yourself. Clinical talk therapy can help clients feel hopeful and empowered to continue on their journeys as parents.

Therapy is such an important resource for new parents struggling with postnatal issues. There are so many benefits from having the support of a trained therapist who can guide and help parents in their healing journey. Among some of the benefits are:

Improve self-esteem.
Teaches emotional regulation.
Better communication between parents.
Reframe negative thoughts into healthier behaviors.
Strengthen the bond between mom and child.
Foster resilience.
Increase self-awareness.
Alleviates symptoms of stress, irritability, depression.

TYPES OF THERAPY FOR POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY:

There are a few types of therapy recommended for postpartum depression and anxiety, the most common are:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A very effective type of therapy focused on helping clients identify negative thoughts and behaviors. This approach creates a safe place for clients to learn how to recognize “triggers” events and develop coping mechanisms to deal with challenging situations which can cause depression and anxiety. It also teaches parents new healthier behaviors such as encouraging exercising and engaging in more social activities. Sessions may also involve partners to improve communication and better the relationship between parents.
Interpersonal Therapy (ITP): It explores the underlying causes of postpartum depression and any other external or circumstantial contributing factors. This approach takes a shorter period of time, over 12-16 week period that follows a specific treatment course.
Group Therapy: A type of processing therapy in a group of people experiencing the same negative emotions associated with postpartum depression and anxiety. By listening to others share their journey as new parents struggling with depression, helps parents feel less alone in their challenges following childbirth. It offers validation from the therapist, teaches new coping tools and a sense of social support as well. It may foster new friendships and important connections with the community.

According to the American Psychological Association about 1 in 7 women will experience postpartum depression, a serious mood disorder that can affect a mother’s ability to care for herself and her baby. Postpartum anxiety and other related conditions, such as postpartum OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) and postpartum psychosis, also present unique challenges. These conditions can be isolating, making it hard for mothers to reach out for support.”

Find a therapist here

Clinical talk therapy

The journey of motherhood is not as easy as one may think. It is a long journey of sacrifices, self-discovery, permeated by many failures and disappointments but also incredible rewards, accomplishments and successes. It is very disheartening to have your dream of becoming a parent overshadowed by postpartum depression.

This is not your fault and you should not go through this without the proper support of family, friends and trained professionals such as your therapist. There is a life full of wonderful memories with your new child awaiting for you. Allow yourself to receive the love you deserve and need.

There is always light and there is always hope.

Be kind. Be brave.Be well.

Always with love,

Ana Brown is an Inspirational Mental Health Content Writer.
She holds a B.A in Psychology, and is fluent in English , Portuguese
and Spanish. Ana is a strong advocate for mental health and
believes we can heal through meaningful connections.
Live your best life..

Ana Brown

HELPFUL LINKS:

EMERGE PSYCHOLOGY GROUP

How can therapy help couples improve communication

National Alliance on Mental Illness

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or text 988

HOW THERAPY CAN HELP WITH THE LOSS OF A PET-DEALING WITH PET GRIEF.

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Coping strategies for losing a pet. How can therapy help with pet grief recovery.

by Ana Brown B.A Psychology (she/her). Reviewed by Dr. Pascale Piron Psy.D., M.A., LCPC (she/her).

March 13th,2025.

She loved chasing leaves in the Fall. “Treat” was her favorite word and she was the most fun and the smartest dog I have ever had. She knew the difference between my good days and the challenging ones. Penelope was there for me all the time. During the years we spent together we had amazing times and very difficult ones too, and she helped me get through it all. The companionship and unconditional love we shared are still some of my favorite memories. When she got sick, I prayed and bargained that I could have a few more years with her, but she was ready to go despite all the efforts to keep her alive. I thought it would be easier to grieve a pet than a person, but it wasn’t. Loss is loss.

Coping with the loss of a pet can feel very different for all of us. Although the Grief model lists several stages when we refer to death, we all experience our own diverse emotions. Grief is not a “one size fits all” process. Some people may even feel relieved that their pet is no longer suffering. And some experience Complicated Grief – Mayo Clinic which is the prolonged stages of grief that “unable you to move through these stages more than a year after the death of a loved one.” If you are experiencing intense feelings after the loss of your pet, it’s important to get help, contact a licensed therapist who is trained to guide you through the stages of grief.

” There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.”

Mahatma Gandhi

WHAT ARE THE STAGES OF GRIEF:

On her book “On death and Dying” Elizabeth Kubler-Ross explained the five stages of grief in 1969. These stages apply not only to the loss of a human loved one but also to the loss of a beloved pet. The stages are listed as:

Denial – A defense mechanism that numbs the shock of a loss and helps us navigate through the first initial painful feelings related to loss. The sensation that the situation feels “surreal” or “I cannot believe this is happening.”
Anger – After reality sets in, usually the next stage is anger, when people feel the urge to blame someone for the pain we are feeling. Blame family, friends or the veterinary who was caring for the pet.
Bargain – The bargaining stage refers to a desperate attempt to bargain, usually with a higher power, with themselves or even with their lost pet. It involves intense emotions and irrational attempts to bring their lost pet back. “If only I could see her one more time.”
Depression – Or extreme sadness is the stage in which grief sets the reality we must face. Some people may go into withdraw from family and friends, and others may reach out for support.
Acceptance – The final stage, and a challenging one, where mourners accept the loss and must move on without their beloved pets. Most people recognize the special time spent together and are ready to focus on the beautiful memories made.

WHAT IS DISENFRANCHISED GRIEF?

Often times people do not understand the grieving process for the loss of a pet. As sad as this may be, unfortunately, it is a fact that in general society does not recognize the strength and depth of a pet-human bond and the immense and great sadness associated with the death of our pets.

This disregard and dismissal of mourner’s deep sadness usually lead into isolation during this period making the healing process even more difficult. Hence the importance of seeking professional help. In a therapeutic setting, the complex and devastating feelings related to the loss of a pet are validated, understood and processed to allow clients to move through the stages and return to their normal lives feeling empowered.

Disenfranchised Grief: When no one seems to understand your loss. Also known as hidden grief or sorrow, refers to any grief that goes unacknowledged or invalidated by social norms.

Healthline.com

HOW CAN THERAPY HELP WITH THE LOSS OF A PET:

Safe space: A licensed therapist creates a safe space for you to discuss negative emotions and extreme sadness or depression related to the loss of a pet.
Underlying issues: During therapy sessions therapists help clients identify prior mental health issues that may be triggered by the loss of their pets and offer a suitable treatment plan.
Coping mechanisms: Therapists teach clients different techniques and tools on how to cope with extreme sadness over the loss of a pet. Such as journaling or any other self-care activities which promote healing.
Honoring your pet’s memory : Therapists can guide you in creating different ways to keep your pet’s memory alive. Some examples include creating a memory garden, finding a non-profit pet organization to donate, compiling photos and memorabilia for a memory box or simply recalling special times together.
Pain relief: A therapy session is a time when you can feel safe and encouraged to open up about the difficult feelings after the loss of a pet. This can promote healing and a sense of relief.
Finding joy again: A therapist can guide you in finding joy again in new activities, hobbies and interests, exploring new ways to stay busy and looking into the future.
Accept the loss: It takes a while for all of us to accept loss. For some people it may take longer than usual, impacting their daily activities and their ability to function at work or at home. Therapy can help clients accept loss and work through the process of closure.

Find a licensed therapist here

There are many ways to handle pet loss emotionally, to process grief and get bereavement support. Therapists can prevent clients from developing long lasting negative impact on their mental health after losing a loved pet by encouraging resilience and focusing on the positive feelings deriving from the special memories with their pets while also validating their mourning and pain.

Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.

Anatole France

Loss is never easy and it is inevitable. But, we don’t have to go through these heartbreaking moments alone. Reach out for help. Avoid isolation and focus on the amazing time spent together. The relationship with our pets is pure and free of resentments, it’s about unconditional love and the most loyal friendship we can experience. I miss Penelope terribly, but I know she is somewhere chasing leaves on a beautiful Fall afternoon. And this is where my heart stays. On our beautiful story together.

Be kind. Be brave. Be well.

Always with love,

Ana Brown is an Inspirational Mental Health Content Writer.
She holds a B.A. in Psychology, is a published author fluent in
English, Portuguese and Spanish. Ana is a strong advocate for
mental health and believes in the power of healing through
meaningful connections.
Live your best life.

Ana Brown

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