Millennials, Therapy Generation?
In the fast-paced landscape of the 21st century, I find a common group of clients reaching out. Millennials. We find ourselves at the center of a whirlwind of challenges that can take a toll on anyones mental well-being. We’re the generation that needs therapy. From financial woes and political upheavals to the burden of student loans and the shifting dynamics of relationships, us millennials are facing a unique set of stressors. I want to delve into some of those struggles that millennials grapple with, not just the middle part of the skinny jeans debate, but exploring the impact of finances, political drama, life events, inflation, student loan debt, and rising divorce rates.
Financial Strains
For millennials, financial stability doesn’t look like our parents. In this housing market it can often seem like an elusive dream. The aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, coupled with the rising cost of living, has made it challenging for our generation to achieve the economic milestones our parents did. Stagnant wages, increasing housing costs (do I mention interest rates), and the burden of student loan debt all contribute to a perfect storm of financial stress, creating a breeding ground for anxiety and uncertainty about the future. Hello existential crisis.
Political Drama and Societal Turmoil
The (can we just agree tumultuous) political drama in recent years has left us feeling like we are in a never ending battle. There’s the constant exposure on social media and news outlets that has lead many of us to feelings of powerlessness, frustration, and even filled despair about our countries future. The weight of societal expectations and the pressure to participate in activism has further contributed to mental exhaustion as we grapple with finding our voice amidst the chaos. Should we mention politics at the Thanksgiving dinner table?
Living Through Historic Events
From witnessing the 9/11 attacks to experiencing the global financial crisis, the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the multiple wars and civil unrest in other countries, we as millennials have been witness to a series of historic events that have shaped our worldview. Living through these impactful moments has lead some of us to have a heightened sense of existential anxiety, as we question our role in an ever-changing world. I hear it often, “Can things just stop happening”.
Inflation and Economic Uncertainty
But then there’s inflation, that looms large, affecting the ability to plan for our future. The rising cost of goods (groceries, gas, clothing) and services just adds to the financial stress and often changes the family dynamics (or what some thought life would look like), making it harder for us to reach those traditional markers of success, such as homeownership and financial independence. No shame in living in your parents basement in 2023.
Student Loan Debt
The crushing weight of student loan debt is an added layer after and many of us feel as though we are being punished for doing what the expectation was (after high-school, college). The pressure to excel academically, coupled with the financial burden of repaying substantial student loans, often lead folks to my office with feelings of being overwhelmed and heightened anxiety and stress. It can feel like a constant juggling act of managing debt while striving for career success, it can take a toll on anyones mental health. I’m still waiting on those loans to be forgiven.
Rising Divorce Rates
Changing societal norms and relationship expectations have contributed to a shift in marriage dynamics. Millennials, often delaying marriage compared to previous generations (go us!), are also witnessing a rise in divorce rates. Things come to mind as reasons why: navigating the complexities of relationships, adding children to the mix, or even a change in the desire to have children, society moving towards sigh acceptance of non traditional relationships, and the fear of commitment. I am sure I am missing a few. Becoming parents is hard on relationships, financial stress is hard on relationships, etc. It can add an additional layer of stress, impacting mental health. Have you seen the prices of daycare?
In the face of these challenges, I end up seeing millennials who are doing their best to keep their heads above water, demonstrating fortitude and trying to adapt. However, I recognize the toll these struggles (and of course others not listed) can take on your mental health.
We didn’t ask to experience all this shit, but here we are. At Fostering Fortitude, we specialize in providing personalized, evidence-based treatment for the unique challenges faced by high-performers and driven individuals. Whether you're grappling with perfectionism, people-pleasing tendencies, debilitating stress and burnout, or the lingering effects of trauma and PTSD, our practice in Dublin, Ohio is here to help you cultivate greater inner strength and resilience. Utilizing cutting-edge techniques like EMDR therapy, somatic interventions, and other evidence-based approaches, we'll work closely to address the deep-rooted issues underlying your struggles. We are experts merging the latest neuroscientific research on stress, trauma, and relationships with a compassionate, client-centered approach. Schedule a free consultation.
