We often associate depression with negative experiences, but even the great stuff that happens to us in life can trigger unexpected emotional reactions.
Occasions that are meant to be happy ones can sometimes lead to a sense of loss, overwhelm, or a disconnect from our usual routines, which then opens the door to feelings of sadness and emptiness. Here are some of these surprising triggers.
1. Getting married or starting a new relationship
While weddings and new relationships are often seen as joyous occasions, they also come with major life adjustments. The pressure to meet expectations, navigate new family dynamics, and blend lifestyles can be overwhelming, leading to anxiety and even depression.
2. Having a baby
Bringing a new life into the world is a beautiful experience, but it’s also a huge responsibility. The sleep deprivation, hormonal changes, and the shift in identity can be a lot to handle, leaving new parents feeling isolated and emotionally drained.
3. Getting a promotion or a new job
Landing a dream job or getting a promotion is exciting, but it also comes with increased responsibilities and pressure to perform. The fear of failure, longer working hours, and the need to adapt to a new environment can trigger stress and anxiety.
4. Moving to a new home or city
Source: Unsplash Starting fresh in a new place can be exhilarating, but it can also be lonely and disorienting. Leaving behind familiar surroundings, friends, and routines can create a sense of loss and isolation.
5. Retiring from a long career
Retirement offers freedom and the chance to pursue new interests, but it can also lead to a loss of purpose and identity. The sudden shift from a structured work life to a more open-ended schedule can leave people feeling adrift and unsure of their place in the world.
6. Achieving a major goal or accomplishment
Reaching a long-awaited goal can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also leave a void. The sense of anticlimax, the pressure to maintain success, or the question of “what’s next?” can trigger feelings of emptiness and dissatisfaction.
7. Experiencing a significant financial windfall
Suddenly coming into a large sum of money can bring unexpected challenges. Managing finances, dealing with newfound attention, and the fear of losing it all can create anxiety and even strain relationships.
8. Graduating from school or university
Completing a major educational milestone is a proud moment, but it also marks the end of an era. The transition from student life to the “real world” can be daunting, leading to uncertainty and anxiety about the future.
9. Going on a long-awaited holiday or vacation
Holidays are meant to be relaxing and enjoyable, but they can also disrupt our routines and create a sense of letdown when they end. The contrast between the carefree holiday life and the return to everyday responsibilities can trigger feelings of sadness and nostalgia.
10. Experiencing a major physical transformation, such as weight loss or cosmetic surgery
While achieving a desired physical change can boost confidence, it can also lead to unexpected emotional challenges. The pressure to maintain the new look, the fear of judgement, and the underlying issues that may have contributed to the transformation can resurface, causing anxiety and depression.
11. Starting a new hobby or passion project
Source: Unsplash While pursuing new interests is fulfilling, it can also be intimidating. The learning curve, the comparison to other people, and the fear of not being good enough can create self-doubt and discouragement.
12. Becoming a caregiver for a loved one
Caring for a family member or friend can be a selfless act of love, but it can also be emotionally and physically draining. The constant demands, the loss of personal time, and the witnessing of a loved one’s suffering can take a toll on mental health.
13. Experiencing a spiritual awakening or religious conversion
While a newfound spiritual connection can be transformative, it can also lead to questioning old beliefs and relationships. The process of integrating new perspectives into one’s life can be isolating and emotionally challenging.
14. Receiving recognition or awards for achievements
Source: Unsplash Being acknowledged for your hard work is gratifying, but it can also come with pressure to maintain or surpass previous accomplishments. The fear of not living up to expectations and the constant comparison to other people can trigger feelings of inadequacy and anxiety.
15. Falling in love
Falling in love is often portrayed as a blissful experience, but it can also be accompanied by anxiety and vulnerability. The fear of rejection, the intensity of emotions, and the potential for heartbreak can create emotional turmoil, even amidst the joy of a new relationship.
