Not one of us moves through life without an experience of transition. Each stage of life offers a unique set of tasks to master – learning to walk, the first day of school, first kiss, a death, moving from your parents’ home, changing jobs, retirement. A transition is a change that brings about movement from the known to the unknown and for many the unknown can be paralyzing, and anxiety-ridden. It can be easier to stay in the discomfort of the known than to step out and try something new. Imagine being a young adult launching into this world of ours. On one hand, the task of a young adult is to venture into the world to find their path, purpose, and passion. Yet the world is now telling them it is unsafe, stay home, do school online, have food delivered, don’t gather in person with friends.

More than ever young adults find themselves in need of transition or treatment programs where they can be with a community of peers and practice and learn to thrive in the state of transition.

With twenty-plus years of serving young adults, Dragonfly Transitions knows how unique each individual is in their response to this challenge. Practice, support, and increased insight are key for transitions to be a catalyst for change and growth. Young adults, who experience difficulty in the transition from adolescence to adulthood, or from high school to college, may not have coping skills or sufficient support to successfully navigate the transition. They may struggle to see the change as a necessary part of a positive future. With a negative lens, the young adult is more likely to engage in avoidance coping skills perhaps use alcohol, technology, sleep, avoidance, or other distractions to escape the discomfort that comes with stepping into the life tasks of young adulthood. Do they even know where to begin?

Laura A. Schreiner, Ph.D.,a researcher on this topic, identifies five hallmarks that distinguish between a successful and unsuccessful transition:

1. Individuals perceive the transition as an opportunity for growth.
2. Individuals use healthy coping skills during the transition to embrace transitional activities rather than avoid them.
3. Individuals believe they have the support they need to move through the transition successfully.
4. Individuals access resources during the transition to get information, assistance, and support.
5. Individuals emerge from the transition having grown in personally significant ways.

Navigating transition is a developmental life task – seek community and connection on the journey.

About Dragonfly Transitions

Dragonfly Transitions is a young adult treatment program in southern Oregon, founded in 2000, Joint Commission Accredited and Licensed by DHS. Dragonfly launches young adults through community, connection, experience, and leadership. It offers a variety of living, learning, and treatment opportunities which allows for a range of clinical needs to be addressed. Dragonfly provides intentional exposure to transition as we believe hands-on experience leads to success within and beyond the program. Dragonfly is research-based and grounded in the perspective of students. Healing and growth happen through Interpersonal Relationships, Community & Culture, and Experiential Education.