Transitioning into Adulthood (18-21 yrs)

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As we grow up, we go through a lot of changes, both physically and mentally. One of the most significant changes is transitioning into adulthood.

As a teacher, psychologist, therapist, and coach, I strongly believe if I had learnt the tools regarding relationships, self-belief, and emotional regulation younger; anxiety, internal self-limiting patterns, unhealthy relationships and, at times, depressive thoughts would have been avoided or significantly reduced the challenging and painful emotions felt along the way.

Our parents and teachers can only guide us so far; we may feel it inappropriate to ask some questions or hold pressure, shame, or embarrassment when we think we should feel or say something that is different to what we truly want to say in order to please them. When we box ourselves in and do not explore our true thoughts, emotions, and feelings in a safe and supportive environment, this can lead to both short, and long-term implications on our mental wellbeing.

For example, many of us want to learn more about romantic relationships or what we should or shouldn’t say or do. We ask our friends, but let’s face it, they don’t know this stuff either, and it’s most likely their ego talking rather than from their educated or informed position. Most of us can only talk to our parents about romantic relationships on a surface level but cannot truly ask the questions we want to or discuss how we feel because it feels uncomfortable to do so. Let us create a safe, confidential space together where you can feel relaxed to ask away and where you do not need to be in fear of judgement or doubt.

Transitioning into adulthood is a time when we start taking on more responsibilities both in our personal and professional lives, where we haven’t fully learnt how to control our inner thoughts or emotions. We probably react to situations rather than respond in a controlled manner. Let’s face it, some adults cannot even do this, so think how powerful it will be if you can learn this earlier on as you transition from leaving sixth form into your next chapter, whether that’s university, a career or a life partner. This is a time where you start to form your own identity away from your parents and create your place in the world that can be both exciting and daunting; so, let’s do this together.

Transitioning Self-Investment Packages Range From:

12 sessions
8 sessions
4 sessions

One of the biggest challenges during this transition is dealing with the pressure to conform to societal norms.

We may feel like we need to fit in with our peers or follow a certain path, even if it doesn't feel right to us. This can lead to a lot of stress and anxiety as you struggle to find your own way. Maybe it's how you feel you 'should' look or dress? How you 'should' be in a relationship or with a particular person? How you 'should' be with friends? Or perhaps how our relationship with our parents 'should' be as we assert our independence and challenge the boundaries that were set for us during childhood? This can all be challenging as we adjust to our new role and learn how to communicate in new ways while staying true to who we are.

For all of us, it is important to understand what attachment styles are.

Attachment refers to the emotional bond that develops between people, and attachment styles describe the ways in which we relate to others. This will have a huge impact on our romantic relationships, friendships and how we interact with colleagues. For example, if we have a secure attachment style, we're likely to be comfortable with intimacy and have positive views of ourselves and others. On the other hand, if we have an anxious attachment style, we may worry about our partner's availability and whether they truly like us and have a negative view of ourselves. Or perhaps we are avoidant where we find it hard to get close to others as we cannot trust them and do not enjoy feeling emotionally vulnerable with others.

One of the biggest challenges during this transition is learning to navigate conflict in a healthy way.

Disagreements are a natural part of any relationship or friendship, but it can be difficult to find a balance between standing up for ourselves and being respectful of others. It's important to develop good communication skills and learn to express our needs in a clear and respectful way.

Another challenge during this transition is learning to manage our own emotions.

As we assert our independence and start making decisions for ourselves, we may experience feelings of anxiety, stress, or confusion. It's important to learn to recognize these emotions and find healthy ways to manage them, such as through exercise, hobbies, journalling, our sessions together or other self-care strategies.

Here are some tips to help…

It's important to be true to ourselves and communicate honestly with others. This means expressing our needs and boundaries in a clear and respectful way.

Practice active listening: When we're in a disagreement with someone, it's important to listen actively and try to understand their point of view. This can help us find common ground and resolve conflicts in a respectful way. Remember, it's not about being right or creating competition; this is about protecting our energy. We do not need to be right, but it's about creating connection with others.

Be honest with ourselves and others:

Learn to manage and regulate our emotions: Develop healthy coping mechanisms for managing stress and anxiety, such as exercise, meditation, journaling, breathing exercises, getting enough sleep and our sessions together. This can help us stay grounded and focused as we navigate this transition.

Seek out support: Whether it's from friends, family, or during our sessions together, it's important to have a support system in place as we navigate this transition. Having people, we can talk to and rely on can help us feel more confident and less alone. Remember, our sessions together are normal and allows for a unique relationship like no other where true honesty can be discussed in a supportive and safe space for our confidential conversations to take place.

Be honest with ourselves and others:

Remember that relationships and attachment styles are complex, and everyone navigates them in their own way.

By being honest, communicating respectfully, and seeking out support, you can develop healthy relationships and attachments as you transition into adulthood.

Get in touch, let's get started together.

Let's get started.