ABSTRACT
Transitions are stressful. Change is a necessary part of transition, and with change comes uncertainty. Planned transitions may include attending college, starting a first job, committing to an intimate relationship, having children, changing career, or retirement. Unplanned transitions are particularly stressful because they may be unwanted and painful. Unexpected changes that involve increases of resources or attained outcomes can range from pleasant to overwhelming experiences. During coping periods, it is important to devote time to self-care strategies and values-based behavior, even if this doesn’t make us feel better at the time. No matter how exciting or positive a planned transition may be, it can still be stressful and fearful due to the uncertainty. Levels of uncertainty vary from person to person and from situation to situation. Sometimes people know exactly what they want to do and what the next step is going to look like.
