Even though it is called a midlife crisis, the timing of the traditional signs of one tend to crop up more around different events in life instead of at a certain time.

Age, of course, may play a part, as milestone birthdays like 40, 50, and 60 can cause impulsive feelings. But the definition of it is when people tend to face their own mortality, and life events can trigger that more than a certain age.

Cooperstown Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has a look at the common triggers and signs of a midlife crisis.

Life Events That Can Bring on a Midlife Crisis

For older adults, especially those who equate working with a sense of purpose, retirement can cause actions and thoughts that would be considered a midlife crisis. Other common triggers are experiencing health issues, losing a loved one, having some sort of life transition, or even reaching an age where you outlived someone close to you—commonly a parent or older sibling.

Anything where you are aware of large changes happening, especially ones that make you face your own mortality, can cause midlife-crisis symptoms.

Signs of a Midlife Crisis

A midlife crisis isn’t always defined as buying a sports car or other impulse buy. It can cause mood disorders like anxiety and depression. Someone suffering may have trouble focusing on tasks or attending to present relationships. That can be brought on by thoughts of someone wondering if they’ve accomplished enough at this point in their life or whether they have time to do other things that they want.

So if you or a loved one is experiencing a big change in their life, watch for sudden changes of behavior that could be the sign of something more serious.

To learn more about Cooperstown Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://cooperstown-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.