Role transitions—such as becoming a parent, changing careers, or entering retirement—can be emotionally challenging. Even positive changes can trigger stress, identity confusion, and low mood. It’s common to feel lost, overwhelmed, or disconnected during major life shifts.
“I thought becoming a mum would feel natural. Instead, I felt like I’d disappeared and didn’t know who I was anymore”.
Life transitions often challenge long-held identities, routines, and relationships. These changes can trigger symptoms of anxiety, low mood, or burnout but often people do not realise the root cause is a shift in their role. Parenthood, especially, can bring enormous emotional adjustment—loss of independence, changes in relationships, and perceived pressure to feel grateful, instantly bonded with your child, or to be the perfect parent.
Other transitions—such as promotion, redundancy, divorce, or caring responsibilities—can evoke grief for a past identity or fear of an uncertain future. Many adults feel ashamed for struggling with what society frames as “milestones”. Without support, challenging role transitions can lead to isolation, chronic stress, and worsening mental health.
“Supporting people through role changes is deeply meaningful. Once the emotional impact is named, it becomes possible to rebuild from a place of strength.”
At Bloomfield Health, we take a compassionate and non-judgemental approach to the emotional impact of life transitions. Our clinicians help you process the identity shifts, losses, and pressures you may be experiencing—whether you’re becoming a parent, navigating midlife, retiring, or adjusting to a new caregiving role. We use evidence-based psychological therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or compassion-focused therapy (CFT) to help you regain clarity, confidence, and emotional balance.
Everyone adjusts differently. Social expectations often hide the emotional toll of major life changes.
Yes. Many people experience identity loss, overwhelm, or low mood during this transition—even without postnatal depression.
Absolutely. Role transitions don’t require trauma to be emotionally disruptive. Support can help you adjust healthily.
Yes. Therapy can help you reconnect with yourself and integrate your new role into a broader identity.
Not necessarily, but some transitions—like becoming a carer or parent—can lead to burnout without support.
Only if it’s relevant and you want to. Our main focus will be on what’s happening now and how to support you moving forward.
That’s common. We can help you manage relationship dynamics and improve communication during transitions.
Not always. We can support you to make practical adjustments or explore phased changes if needed.
We are registered by the Care Quality Commission (CQC),
the independent regulator of health and social care in England.
