{"content_id":"fopltib23d","slug":"midlife-crisis-decisions-in-your-40s-and-50s","locale":"en","schema_type":"Article","category":"knowledge_base","category_name":"Knowledge Base","title":"Midlife Crisis in Your 40s and 50s: What to Consider","summary":"Midlife anxiety cannot be explained by age and personal attitude alone. This outlines criteria for assessing separately when you will need money you plan to invest, life after retirement, how much support to give your children, and your health.","sponsorship_disclosure":null,"affiliate_disclosure":null,"commerce_disclosure":null,"author":{"name":"Injoys Editorial Team","url":"https://injoys.com/ko/about"},"key_points":["There is little evidence that a midlife crisis is an inevitable stage everyone goes through.","Judge investment risk by when you will need the money and your ability to absorb losses, not by other people's returns.","Retirement planning requires a plan for maintaining daily activities and relationships as well as covering living expenses.","Decide how much to support your children by considering both your ability to meet your own living needs and your children's goals.","Do not dismiss persistent low mood or loss of interest as just age. Talk to a professional."],"content_markdown":"Anxiety in your 40s and 50s cannot be explained by age alone. Mistakes to avoid include rushed investments, retiring without preparing for daily life, and supporting children beyond what you can afford. Review your choices based on your current income, health, and relationships rather than other people’s achievements.\n\nThe duration criterion for depressive symptoms follows WHO guidance dated September 11, 2026.\n\n## Does everyone experience a midlife crisis?\n\nA midlife crisis is not a stage everyone inevitably goes through. In everyday language, it means feeling unsettled as you reconsider the direction of your life in middle age. The term alone cannot be used to determine whether someone has a specific mental illness.\n\nA U.S. study published in 2000 examined self-reports of midlife crises. Participants often linked crises to major life events rather than age. Because this was an older U.S. study, its findings are difficult to generalize to middle-aged people in Korea today. You can read the study in the [paper available through MIDUS](https://midus.wisc.edu/findings/pdfs/103.pdf).\n\nIf you feel anxious, start by writing down what has recently changed in your life. Income problems caused by job loss call for a different response from family conflict. It helps to avoid treating different problems as one failure of your entire life.\n\n| Situation causing anxiety | What to check first |\n| --- | --- |\n| Changes in work or income | Expenses you can cover with your current income |\n| Children’s further education and independence | The purpose of your support and how much you can afford |\n| Family conflict or separation | The specific causes of the conflict and the help you need |\n| Worsening health and fatigue | How long symptoms have lasted and whether you need medical care |\n| Comparing your achievements with those of others | Whether the people you compare yourself with reflect your own life goals |\n\n## Is it too late to start something new in your 40s?\n\nAge alone cannot determine whether you can learn something new or change careers. The U.S. National Institute on Aging explains that people can learn new things even in later life. But being able to learn does not guarantee a job or higher income. You can find the basis for this in its [guide to common misconceptions about aging](https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/healthy-aging/10-common-misconceptions-about-aging).\n\nDeciding whether to start learning and whether to change how you earn a living are separate decisions. A hobby class and starting a business after quitting your job involve different costs. If you want to change careers, check the skills you need and the potential gap in income before focusing on your age.\n\n1. Decide whether you want to change your occupation, your work, or how you spend your free time.\n2. Check the qualifications you need and actual hiring requirements.\n3. Look for ways to try it while maintaining your current way of life.\n4. Consider whether you can afford the time and cost before expanding your plans.\n\nYou should also distinguish between the possibility of living longer and the possibility of working longer. Life expectancy does not guarantee how much time any individual has left. Do not assume that finding another job or earning income in retirement will be easy just because you expect to live a long life.\n\n## Common mistakes in rushed investing\n\nFeeling left behind is not a reason to take on more investment risk. Investment decisions should account for when you will need the money. Check whether you could maintain your way of life even if you lost money.\n\nInvestor.gov, run by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, identifies goals and investment time horizon as factors in making decisions. It also advises considering your risk tolerance. Money you will need soon may have to be sold at a loss. You can find more detail in its [guide to risk tolerance](https://www.investor.gov/introduction-investing/investing-basics/save-and-invest/gauge-your-risk-tolerance).\n\n| Common mistake | What it overlooks | A better question to ask |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Taking more risk because you have earned less than others | Whether your circumstances allow you to withstand a loss | Could you still cover essential expenses after a loss? |\n| Trying to catch up quickly because retirement is near | When you will need to withdraw the money | Could you keep the money invested until you need it? |\n| Assuming it is fine to invest education funds temporarily | When payments are due and the possibility of falling prices | Have you separated planned expenses from investment funds? |\n| Comparing returns alone | Each person’s debts and dependents | Are you comparing people in similar circumstances? |\n\nTo decide what money is available to invest, start by writing down what you will use it for. Mark money with a set spending date, such as living expenses and education costs. You can then consider how to invest what remains.\n\n## Comparing early retirement with continuing to work\n\nWhether early retirement or continuing to work is better depends on your circumstances. FIRE is a concept centered on financial independence and early retirement. It is not, by itself, a way to predict happiness or unhappiness.\n\nWHO explains that good-quality work supports mental health. On the other hand, excessive workloads and harassment are risks to mental health. This does not mean you should stay in a job that harms your health. The basis for this is set out in [WHO’s guidance on mental health at work](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-at-work).\n\nA French GAZEL study published in 2010 observed a reduction in fatigue after retirement. Retirement was also associated with a reduction in depressive symptoms. Because the study observed a specific group of workers, its findings cannot be applied to all retirees. You can review its design and limitations in the [BMJ paper](https://www.bmj.com/content/341/bmj.c6149).\n\n| Choice | Potential advantage | Burden to consider |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Keep your current job | Maintain your income and existing routine | Workload and health |\n| Adjust your duties or working hours | Continue working while managing the demands | Whether changes are actually possible and how income may change |\n| Move to a different job | An opportunity to change your current situation | Time spent looking for work and conditions in the new job |\n| Retire from paid work | More control over how you spend your time | Covering living expenses and rebuilding your routine |\n\nIf you are considering retirement, do not look only at your total assets. Check your debts and recurring expenses first. You should also separately check when expected income, such as a pension, will begin. People with the same amount of assets may differ in their ability to cover living costs.\n\n## How can you prepare for relationships after retirement?\n\nYou can prepare for relationships after retirement by identifying ways to meet people outside work. WHO distinguishes between social isolation and loneliness. Isolation is an objective lack of relationships or interactions. Loneliness is the distress you feel when your actual relationships differ from the ones you want.\n\nWHO considers not only the number of relationships but also the support people give and receive. The quality of relationships is another distinct factor. So you do not need to make attending more gatherings your goal. The definitions appear in its [June 30, 2025 questions and answers on social connection](https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/social-connection).\n\n- Decide whom you feel comfortable contacting and how you will contact them.\n- Look for learning opportunities or local activities that match your interests.\n- Check whether you have relationships in which you can ask for help.\n- Consider whether meeting up only adds stress or conflict.\n\nEnding paid work is not the same as ending your social roles. Learning and local activities are also ways to structure your schedule. Decide whether to participate based on your health, the cost, and accessibility.\n\n## Planning for children’s education costs and retirement under different circumstances\n\nDecisions about supporting your children should also account for whether you can maintain your own way of life. There is no basis for treating all education spending as wasteful. Conversely, large expenses do not guarantee good outcomes.\n\nWhen deciding whether to provide support, first ask what your child wants to achieve. You also need to calculate separately how much you can afford. Do not leave expectations about support to guesswork. Talk about them.\n\n| Current circumstances | What to check first | Choice to consider |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Not enough money for essential living expenses | Current spending and debt repayments | Adjust the scope of any promise of additional support |\n| Able to provide support, but the purpose is unclear | Your child’s goals and the costs involved | Decide whether to provide support after agreeing on its purpose |\n| Education may take longer | The full duration and additional costs | Agree on when support will end and when to review the arrangement |\n| Retirement income is uncertain | The difference between expected income and essential expenses | Decide how much support to provide after reviewing your retirement plans |\n| Your child’s choices conflict with your expectations | The outcome each of you wants | Discuss costs and career plans separately |\n\nGrades are not a measure of your child’s affection or willingness to care for you. There is also insufficient evidence to assume that a higher level of education makes children more distant from their parents. To assess your relationship, look at your actual conversations and each other’s circumstances.\n\n## Life circumstances that mindset alone cannot resolve\n\nNot every difficulty in middle age should be attributed to personal impatience or perfectionism. Insufficient income and caregiving responsibilities require real resources. Workplace harassment is a problem with the work environment.\n\nWHO recommends improving working conditions to support mental health at work. It does not mean individuals should be expected to manage stress on their own. The guidance on mental health at work cited earlier describes responses at the organizational level.\n\nIf you have a vague sense of failure, try to identify the specific problem you need to address. For example, you can distinguish between feeling unappreciated and having an excessive workload. If your workload needs to change, gather the reasons you can discuss with the person responsible.\n\n| Difficulty | What to identify | Help to consider |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Not enough money for living expenses | The difference between regular income and essential expenses | Adjusting spending and getting financial advice |\n| Family caregiving responsibilities | The time required and who currently provides care | Sharing responsibilities within the family and using available care services |\n| Excessive workload | The amount of work and its effect on your health | Adjusting your workload and using workplace support channels |\n| Persistent low mood | Symptoms and changes in daily life | An assessment and discussion of treatment with a healthcare provider |\n\n## A standard for letting go of perfection\n\nLetting go of perfection means acknowledging your current limits and adjusting your goals. Income and job titles describe particular parts of life. They are not scores that measure a person’s entire worth.\n\nCalling a life an A or a C is a metaphor. Do not use it as a literal standard for judging your spouse or children. Accepting imperfections is also not a reason to neglect health problems or conflict.\n\nWhen scaling back a goal, first decide what you need to maintain. For example, even if you adjust your goal of getting promoted, you still need to check how much you need for living expenses. Even if you compare yourself with others less often, debts and health problems that need attention remain.\n\n1. Choose one area that is placing a heavy burden on you now.\n2. Separate the circumstances you can change from those that are difficult to change.\n3. Start with a small change that is easy to reverse.\n4. See how it affects your life before considering your next decision.\n\n## When you should not dismiss low mood as part of aging\n\nIf low mood or loss of interest persists, you need to speak with a professional. WHO explains that a depressive episode lasts at least 2 weeks. It also describes symptoms occurring for most of the day, nearly every day. This is not a standard for diagnosing yourself.\n\nCheck whether you are also experiencing changes in sleep or appetite. Trouble concentrating or severe fatigue is also worth mentioning during a consultation. This information is based on [WHO’s guidance on depression](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression).\n\nIf your symptoms are severe or you are struggling to manage daily life, do not wait 2 weeks. If you are at risk of harming yourself, seek help from local emergency services immediately. When you seek medical care, note when your symptoms began and what has changed in your life so you can explain them.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eAnxiety in your 40s and 50s cannot be explained by age alone. Mistakes to avoid include rushed investments, retiring without preparing for daily life, and supporting children beyond what you can afford. Review your choices based on your current income, health, and relationships rather than other people’s achievements.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe duration criterion for depressive symptoms follows WHO guidance dated September 11, 2026.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#does-everyone-experience-a-midlife-crisis\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"does-everyone-experience-a-midlife-crisis\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eDoes everyone experience a midlife crisis?\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA midlife crisis is not a stage everyone inevitably goes through. In everyday language, it means feeling unsettled as you reconsider the direction of your life in middle age. The term alone cannot be used to determine whether someone has a specific mental illness.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA U.S. study published in 2000 examined self-reports of midlife crises. Participants often linked crises to major life events rather than age. Because this was an older U.S. study, its findings are difficult to generalize to middle-aged people in Korea today. You can read the study in the \u003ca href=\"https://midus.wisc.edu/findings/pdfs/103.pdf\"\u003epaper available through MIDUS\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you feel anxious, start by writing down what has recently changed in your life. Income problems caused by job loss call for a different response from family conflict. It helps to avoid treating different problems as one failure of your entire life.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSituation causing anxiety\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to check first\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation causing anxiety\"\u003eChanges in work or income\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check first\"\u003eExpenses you can cover with your current income\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation causing anxiety\"\u003eChildren’s further education and independence\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check first\"\u003eThe purpose of your support and how much you can afford\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation causing anxiety\"\u003eFamily conflict or separation\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check first\"\u003eThe specific causes of the conflict and the help you need\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation causing anxiety\"\u003eWorsening health and fatigue\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check first\"\u003eHow long symptoms have lasted and whether you need medical care\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation causing anxiety\"\u003eComparing your achievements with those of others\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check first\"\u003eWhether the people you compare yourself with reflect your own life goals\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#is-it-too-late-to-start-something-new-in-your-40s\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"is-it-too-late-to-start-something-new-in-your-40s\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eIs it too late to start something new in your 40s?\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAge alone cannot determine whether you can learn something new or change careers. The U.S. National Institute on Aging explains that people can learn new things even in later life. But being able to learn does not guarantee a job or higher income. You can find the basis for this in its \u003ca href=\"https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/healthy-aging/10-common-misconceptions-about-aging\"\u003eguide to common misconceptions about aging\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeciding whether to start learning and whether to change how you earn a living are separate decisions. A hobby class and starting a business after quitting your job involve different costs. If you want to change careers, check the skills you need and the potential gap in income before focusing on your age.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDecide whether you want to change your occupation, your work, or how you spend your free time.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck the qualifications you need and actual hiring requirements.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLook for ways to try it while maintaining your current way of life.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConsider whether you can afford the time and cost before expanding your plans.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou should also distinguish between the possibility of living longer and the possibility of working longer. Life expectancy does not guarantee how much time any individual has left. Do not assume that finding another job or earning income in retirement will be easy just because you expect to live a long life.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#common-mistakes-in-rushed-investing\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"common-mistakes-in-rushed-investing\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eCommon mistakes in rushed investing\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeeling left behind is not a reason to take on more investment risk. Investment decisions should account for when you will need the money. Check whether you could maintain your way of life even if you lost money.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInvestor.gov, run by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, identifies goals and investment time horizon as factors in making decisions. It also advises considering your risk tolerance. Money you will need soon may have to be sold at a loss. You can find more detail in its \u003ca href=\"https://www.investor.gov/introduction-investing/investing-basics/save-and-invest/gauge-your-risk-tolerance\"\u003eguide to risk tolerance\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCommon mistake\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat it overlooks\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eA better question to ask\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common mistake\"\u003eTaking more risk because you have earned less than others\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What it overlooks\"\u003eWhether your circumstances allow you to withstand a loss\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"A better question to ask\"\u003eCould you still cover essential expenses after a loss?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common mistake\"\u003eTrying to catch up quickly because retirement is near\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What it overlooks\"\u003eWhen you will need to withdraw the money\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"A better question to ask\"\u003eCould you keep the money invested until you need it?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common mistake\"\u003eAssuming it is fine to invest education funds temporarily\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What it overlooks\"\u003eWhen payments are due and the possibility of falling prices\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"A better question to ask\"\u003eHave you separated planned expenses from investment funds?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common mistake\"\u003eComparing returns alone\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What it overlooks\"\u003eEach person’s debts and dependents\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"A better question to ask\"\u003eAre you comparing people in similar circumstances?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo decide what money is available to invest, start by writing down what you will use it for. Mark money with a set spending date, such as living expenses and education costs. You can then consider how to invest what remains.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#comparing-early-retirement-with-continuing-to-work\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"comparing-early-retirement-with-continuing-to-work\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eComparing early retirement with continuing to work\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether early retirement or continuing to work is better depends on your circumstances. FIRE is a concept centered on financial independence and early retirement. It is not, by itself, a way to predict happiness or unhappiness.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWHO explains that good-quality work supports mental health. On the other hand, excessive workloads and harassment are risks to mental health. This does not mean you should stay in a job that harms your health. The basis for this is set out in \u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-at-work\"\u003eWHO’s guidance on mental health at work\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA French GAZEL study published in 2010 observed a reduction in fatigue after retirement. Retirement was also associated with a reduction in depressive symptoms. Because the study observed a specific group of workers, its findings cannot be applied to all retirees. You can review its design and limitations in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.bmj.com/content/341/bmj.c6149\"\u003eBMJ paper\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChoice\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePotential advantage\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eBurden to consider\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Choice\"\u003eKeep your current job\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Potential advantage\"\u003eMaintain your income and existing routine\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Burden to consider\"\u003eWorkload and health\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Choice\"\u003eAdjust your duties or working hours\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Potential advantage\"\u003eContinue working while managing the demands\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Burden to consider\"\u003eWhether changes are actually possible and how income may change\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Choice\"\u003eMove to a different job\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Potential advantage\"\u003eAn opportunity to change your current situation\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Burden to consider\"\u003eTime spent looking for work and conditions in the new job\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Choice\"\u003eRetire from paid work\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Potential advantage\"\u003eMore control over how you spend your time\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Burden to consider\"\u003eCovering living expenses and rebuilding your routine\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are considering retirement, do not look only at your total assets. Check your debts and recurring expenses first. You should also separately check when expected income, such as a pension, will begin. People with the same amount of assets may differ in their ability to cover living costs.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#how-can-you-prepare-for-relationships-after-retirement\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"how-can-you-prepare-for-relationships-after-retirement\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eHow can you prepare for relationships after retirement?\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can prepare for relationships after retirement by identifying ways to meet people outside work. WHO distinguishes between social isolation and loneliness. Isolation is an objective lack of relationships or interactions. Loneliness is the distress you feel when your actual relationships differ from the ones you want.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWHO considers not only the number of relationships but also the support people give and receive. The quality of relationships is another distinct factor. So you do not need to make attending more gatherings your goal. The definitions appear in its \u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/social-connection\"\u003eJune 30, 2025 questions and answers on social connection\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDecide whom you feel comfortable contacting and how you will contact them.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLook for learning opportunities or local activities that match your interests.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck whether you have relationships in which you can ask for help.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConsider whether meeting up only adds stress or conflict.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnding paid work is not the same as ending your social roles. Learning and local activities are also ways to structure your schedule. Decide whether to participate based on your health, the cost, and accessibility.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#planning-for-childrens-education-costs-and-retirement-under-different-circumstances\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"planning-for-childrens-education-costs-and-retirement-under-different-circumstances\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003ePlanning for children’s education costs and retirement under different circumstances\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDecisions about supporting your children should also account for whether you can maintain your own way of life. There is no basis for treating all education spending as wasteful. Conversely, large expenses do not guarantee good outcomes.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen deciding whether to provide support, first ask what your child wants to achieve. You also need to calculate separately how much you can afford. Do not leave expectations about support to guesswork. Talk about them.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCurrent circumstances\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to check first\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eChoice to consider\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current circumstances\"\u003eNot enough money for essential living expenses\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check first\"\u003eCurrent spending and debt repayments\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Choice to consider\"\u003eAdjust the scope of any promise of additional support\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current circumstances\"\u003eAble to provide support, but the purpose is unclear\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check first\"\u003eYour child’s goals and the costs involved\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Choice to consider\"\u003eDecide whether to provide support after agreeing on its purpose\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current circumstances\"\u003eEducation may take longer\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check first\"\u003eThe full duration and additional costs\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Choice to consider\"\u003eAgree on when support will end and when to review the arrangement\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current circumstances\"\u003eRetirement income is uncertain\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check first\"\u003eThe difference between expected income and essential expenses\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Choice to consider\"\u003eDecide how much support to provide after reviewing your retirement plans\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current circumstances\"\u003eYour child’s choices conflict with your expectations\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check first\"\u003eThe outcome each of you wants\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Choice to consider\"\u003eDiscuss costs and career plans separately\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrades are not a measure of your child’s affection or willingness to care for you. There is also insufficient evidence to assume that a higher level of education makes children more distant from their parents. To assess your relationship, look at your actual conversations and each other’s circumstances.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#life-circumstances-that-mindset-alone-cannot-resolve\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"life-circumstances-that-mindset-alone-cannot-resolve\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eLife circumstances that mindset alone cannot resolve\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot every difficulty in middle age should be attributed to personal impatience or perfectionism. Insufficient income and caregiving responsibilities require real resources. Workplace harassment is a problem with the work environment.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWHO recommends improving working conditions to support mental health at work. It does not mean individuals should be expected to manage stress on their own. The guidance on mental health at work cited earlier describes responses at the organizational level.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have a vague sense of failure, try to identify the specific problem you need to address. For example, you can distinguish between feeling unappreciated and having an excessive workload. If your workload needs to change, gather the reasons you can discuss with the person responsible.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDifficulty\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to identify\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHelp to consider\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Difficulty\"\u003eNot enough money for living expenses\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to identify\"\u003eThe difference between regular income and essential expenses\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Help to consider\"\u003eAdjusting spending and getting financial advice\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Difficulty\"\u003eFamily caregiving responsibilities\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to identify\"\u003eThe time required and who currently provides care\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Help to consider\"\u003eSharing responsibilities within the family and using available care services\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Difficulty\"\u003eExcessive workload\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to identify\"\u003eThe amount of work and its effect on your health\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Help to consider\"\u003eAdjusting your workload and using workplace support channels\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Difficulty\"\u003ePersistent low mood\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to identify\"\u003eSymptoms and changes in daily life\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Help to consider\"\u003eAn assessment and discussion of treatment with a healthcare provider\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#a-standard-for-letting-go-of-perfection\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"a-standard-for-letting-go-of-perfection\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eA standard for letting go of perfection\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLetting go of perfection means acknowledging your current limits and adjusting your goals. Income and job titles describe particular parts of life. They are not scores that measure a person’s entire worth.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCalling a life an A or a C is a metaphor. Do not use it as a literal standard for judging your spouse or children. Accepting imperfections is also not a reason to neglect health problems or conflict.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen scaling back a goal, first decide what you need to maintain. For example, even if you adjust your goal of getting promoted, you still need to check how much you need for living expenses. Even if you compare yourself with others less often, debts and health problems that need attention remain.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChoose one area that is placing a heavy burden on you now.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeparate the circumstances you can change from those that are difficult to change.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStart with a small change that is easy to reverse.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSee how it affects your life before considering your next decision.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#when-you-should-not-dismiss-low-mood-as-part-of-aging\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"when-you-should-not-dismiss-low-mood-as-part-of-aging\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhen you should not dismiss low mood as part of aging\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf low mood or loss of interest persists, you need to speak with a professional. WHO explains that a depressive episode lasts at least 2 weeks. It also describes symptoms occurring for most of the day, nearly every day. This is not a standard for diagnosing yourself.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheck whether you are also experiencing changes in sleep or appetite. Trouble concentrating or severe fatigue is also worth mentioning during a consultation. This information is based on \u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression\"\u003eWHO’s guidance on depression\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf your symptoms are severe or you are struggling to manage daily life, do not wait 2 weeks. If you are at risk of harming yourself, seek help from local emergency services immediately. When you seek medical care, note when your symptoms began and what has changed in your life so you can explain them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","tags":["Everyday Finance","Decision Making","Self Management","Education Expenses","Healthy aging"],"faqs":[{"question":"Does everyone in their 40s and 50s necessarily experience a midlife crisis?","answer":"There is not enough evidence to consider it a stage everyone must go through. Alongside age, consider actual life events such as changes at work, family issues, and health."},{"question":"Can I start studying something new in my 40s?","answer":"Age alone cannot determine your ability to learn. However, being able to learn does not guarantee a job or higher income. First, check the time and cost required to reach your goal."},{"question":"If I have started preparing for retirement late, should I take more investment risk?","answer":"Starting late is not, by itself, a sound reason to take more risk. First, consider when you will need the money and whether you could maintain your standard of living after a loss."},{"question":"Will retiring early make me unhappy?","answer":"Retirement alone cannot predict happiness or unhappiness. Consider both your workload before retirement and your living conditions afterward. In certain groups, reductions in fatigue and depressive symptoms have been observed after retirement."},{"question":"Do I need to keep working to maintain social connections?","answer":"Work is one way to form relationships. Learning or taking part in local activities can also offer opportunities to meet people. This does not mean you have to stay in a job that harms your health just to maintain relationships."},{"question":"How much should I contribute to my children's education costs?","answer":"No amount or percentage applies to every family. Review the parents' essential living expenses and retirement plans. Within those limits, discuss with your children what the support is for and when it will end."},{"question":"Do children's grades predict their relationship with their parents?","answer":"There is not enough evidence to judge affection or willingness to provide care based on grades alone. It is better to look at actual conversations and each other's living circumstances."},{"question":"Are loneliness and social isolation the same thing?","answer":"WHO distinguishes between the two concepts. Social isolation is an objective state of having too few relationships or interactions. Loneliness is the distress felt when there is a gap between the relationships you want and those you have."},{"question":"Does letting go of perfection mean giving up on your goals?","answer":"It can mean adjusting the level or priority of your goals to fit your current circumstances. It does not mean giving up essential living expenses or health care."},{"question":"When should I seek counseling for low mood in midlife?","answer":"If low mood or loss of interest persists or interferes with daily life, consult a professional. WHO describes a depressive episode as lasting at least 2 weeks. If symptoms are severe or your safety is at risk, do not wait that long."}],"sources":[{"url":"https://midus.wisc.edu/findings/pdfs/103.pdf","title":"Elaine Wethington, Expecting Stress: Americans and the “Midlife Crisis”, 2000","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/healthy-aging/10-common-misconceptions-about-aging","title":"U.S. National Institute on Aging, 10 Common Misconceptions About Aging","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.investor.gov/introduction-investing/investing-basics/save-and-invest/gauge-your-risk-tolerance","title":"Investor.gov, Gauge Your Risk Tolerance","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-at-work","title":"WHO, Mental health at work, September 15, 2026","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.bmj.com/content/341/bmj.c6149","title":"BMJ, Effect of retirement on major chronic conditions and fatigue: French GAZEL occupational cohort study, 2010","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/social-connection","title":"WHO, Social connection Q\u0026A, June 30, 2025","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression","title":"WHO, Depressive disorder (depression), September 11, 2026","type":"source"}],"images":[{"id":1544,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MjI4MzcsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--025a264f03449eb0304150b04b1c801751f72039/ai-ae426cfa.webp","is_representative":true,"generation_method":"ai_photo","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"부엌 식탁에서 중년 여성이 지출 계획서를 짚으며 딸과 이야기한다.","caption":"자녀 지원 범위는 부모의 생활 유지 가능성과 자녀의 목표를 함께 고려해 정해야 합니다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"A middle-aged woman points to a spending plan while talking with her daughter at a kitchen table.","caption":"Decide how much to support adult children by weighing their goals against your own financial needs.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"キッチンのテーブルで、中年の女性が支出計画を指しながら娘と話している。","caption":"子どもへの支援は、親の生活を維持できるかと子どもの目標を踏まえて決めましょう。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Una mujer de mediana edad señala un plan de gastos mientras conversa con su hija en la cocina.","caption":"Decide cuánto apoyar a tus hijos considerando sus metas y tu capacidad para mantener tu propio sustento.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Seorang perempuan paruh baya menunjuk rencana pengeluaran sambil berbicara dengan putrinya di dapur.","caption":"Tentukan dukungan untuk anak dengan mempertimbangkan tujuan mereka dan kemampuan orang tua memenuhi kebutuhan hidup.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Uma mulher de meia-idade aponta para um plano de gastos enquanto conversa com a filha na cozinha.","caption":"Defina o apoio aos filhos considerando os objetivos deles e a capacidade de manter o próprio sustento.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"一名中年婦女在廚房餐桌旁指著支出計畫，與女兒交談。","caption":"決定給子女多少支持時，應兼顧子女的目標與父母維持自身生活的能力。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Eine Frau mittleren Alters zeigt am Küchentisch auf einen Ausgabenplan und spricht mit ihrer Tochter.","caption":"Wie viel Unterstützung Kinder erhalten, sollte von ihren Zielen und der eigenen finanziellen Absicherung abhängen.","description":null}}},{"id":1545,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MjI4NDMsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--7bd2946ad4dafd2e2b177871c2eabe08c43c8758/ai-4e8aa08b.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"ai_semi","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"도예 교실 문 앞에 선 중년 남성을 앞치마를 입은 여성이 의자를 빼며 맞이한다.","caption":"은퇴 준비에는 생활비뿐 아니라 일상 활동과 관계를 이어갈 계획도 필요합니다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"A middle-aged man pauses at a pottery class doorway as a woman pulls out a chair for him.","caption":"Retirement planning should include ways to maintain daily activities and relationships, not just cover expenses.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"陶芸教室の入り口に立つ中年男性を、女性が椅子を引いて迎えている。","caption":"退職後に備えるには、生活費だけでなく日々の活動や人とのつながりを保つ計画も必要です。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Un hombre de mediana edad se detiene a la entrada de una clase de cerámica mientras una mujer le acerca una silla.","caption":"Preparar la jubilación implica planear cómo mantener las actividades cotidianas y los vínculos, además de cubrir los gastos.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Pria paruh baya berhenti di pintu kelas tembikar saat seorang perempuan menarikkan kursi untuknya.","caption":"Persiapan pensiun perlu mencakup rencana menjaga kegiatan sehari-hari dan hubungan sosial, bukan hanya biaya hidup.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Um homem de meia-idade para à entrada de uma aula de cerâmica enquanto uma mulher puxa uma cadeira para ele.","caption":"Planejar a aposentadoria inclui manter atividades diárias e vínculos, além de prever as despesas.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"一名中年男子站在陶藝課教室門口，一名女子拉開椅子迎接他。","caption":"退休規劃除了生活費，也需要考慮如何維持日常活動與人際關係。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Ein Mann mittleren Alters steht im Eingang eines Töpferkurses, während eine Frau einen Stuhl für ihn heranzieht.","caption":"Zur Ruhestandsplanung gehören neben den Lebenshaltungskosten auch Pläne für Alltag und soziale Beziehungen.","description":null}}}],"published_at":"2026-09-28T22:21:37+09:00","updated_at":"2026-09-28T22:21:37+09:00","license":"cc_by","translation_status":"reviewed","available_locales":["ko","en","ja","es"],"data_locales":["ko","en","ja","es","id","pt","zh-hant","de"],"url":"https://injoys.com/en/articles/midlife-crisis-decisions-in-your-40s-and-50s"}