Dealing with daily transitions..Any tips?

Hi,

Does anyone struggle with transitions? With this I mean simply changing from one activity to another in the day? Eg, when I am at work, when I come home, my anxiety goes bonkers. I find it hard to have a change of activity. I don't know how to digest my day, my feelings, and move on to the next activity.  Just feel exhausted,  overwhelmed,  and can't chill.

Any tips? Thanks so much! 

  • I think, it's a case of chipping away as some things take a bit of practise and don't work straight away. You have to find what's best for you

  • P.S.  I  think what I find hardest with changes of activity in the day, is particularly after stressful things when I have had to 'perform ' or feel exposed. Eg work, or doctors appointment.

    After that adrenaline surge or 'overload', when I return home, I can't come back down to earth or chill. I stay in that stimulated/ stress state, not wanting to relax,  and fearful of the transition and all those thoughts of my previous stressful activity, will come flooding in! 

    So the advice so far has been helpful Blush

  • Thanks very much both, useful advice!  I'll have a look at the ' Just Do It' approach. 

    That sounds challenging,  getting ASD diagnosis in lockdown.Sounds good, to make time for meditation etc. Transition objects,  I'll look that up too. Maybe its about having a familiar safe object that you use to symbolise the change of activity? Eg, I could hold a lovely beach pebble after work?!

  • My report mentioned making use of "transitions objects" but I don't know what they are. Maybe it could be something sensory pleasing. When I went back to work after lockdown during which I got my diagnosis,  I wore smart jeans and my non work boots. I feel that wearing these things which I'd wear anyway help a bit as I feel more comfortable in the day to begin with. I make sure when I get home I have time to do what I need to do (sit and stare, have a brew, come on here - whatever is needed). Make sure you allow time for this. Maybe try mindfulness meditation breathing. 

  • I force myself by saying " you have to do this ".

    This thinking was part of the "Just Do It " book I partially read on Positive Thinking which recommends you face down your fears and Just Do It anyway - especially when u dont like it.   This to prevent you being boxed in and giving into your transitioning fears

    Eventually you get better at Transitioning. 

    Its the one thing I still find hard