Struggles that young adults are facing today and how to help

Written by

Madison (“Madi”) Fulford MS, LCMHCA, LCASA

If you’re under 30 right now, you know it’s a unique and often challenging journey. Whether you’re from Gen Z, which is considered the generation of “digital natives,” or a part of the rising generation alpha, this stage of your life typically includes a lot of changes, ones that prior generations didn’t have to deal with! Changing and adapting to new experiences can be hard and leave you feeling like you have little support. Whether we are living on our own for the first time, or figuring out what “career” we want to go into, finding effective ways to manage our stress levels and take care of ourselves is extremely important! It’s okay to feel overwhelmed.

Financial Instability

Growing up, most individuals rely on their family to provide financial support for them, but as the transition from adolescents, to teens, then to young adults occurs, student loan debt, high housing costs, and stagnant wages, make it difficult to achieve financial independence and build wealth. Maybe you’re trying to figure out how to stretch your first paycheck, or staring down student loan statements that feel impossible.

One way to help combat financial stress is to formulate a financial plan that includes clear and measurable goals. For example, budgeting (Gross, I know) and figuring out how much can be moved around to different areas. We can only work with what we bring in financially, unfortunately.

Most student loan providers also provide tailored payment plans that can work with an individual’s income, and provide assistance if you are not able to pay a certain amount.

There are also housing assistance programs available to most young adults. See the housing affordability section for more information.

To take some of the pressure off your finances, try mapping out a simple financial plan. Even small steps, like knowing where your money is going each month, can make a huge difference.

Mental Health Challenges

Increased pressure from social media, academic demands, and career uncertainty contribute to rising rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues among young adults. There is also increased pressure from society surrounding what stage of life young adults should start thinking about their future and what that entails. It’s easy to get caught up in the highlight reels on social media, constantly comparing your behind-the-scenes to everyone else’s curated fronts.

Developing stress management skills, and a self-care routine can be effective in helping navigate some of these challenges. What reduces your stress levels and helps you feel relaxed? What makes you happy and fulfilled?

For college students, most universities offer on campus counseling for students, for free, which can be helpful to students who can not afford counseling services.

Here are also some mental health resources at no cost:

Most counties also have a mobile crisis team that can speak with you on the phone or come to your home. Contact information depends on the county.

Career Uncertainty and Job Market Competition

Many young adults face a competitive job market, with a mismatch between available jobs and our skills or degrees. This can lead to underemployment, frequent job changes, and difficulty finding stable, meaningful work. It can feel like you’re playing a game of whack-a-mole with job applications, or questioning if your degree will actually land you the career you dreamed of.

One way to help decrease career uncertainty is to seek career counseling. If you are a student, you can obtain career counseling for free. If you are out of college, you can find a licensed career counselor through the internet or receive free career assistance for non-profit organizations such as those listed below:

Housing Affordability

The cost of rent and homeownership continues to rise, making it challenging for young adults to secure affordable and stable housing, especially in urban areas. This often results in living with family longer or struggling to afford basic necessities.

In some areas, there are low income housing options available. Looking into the housing authority of your area can be helpful. If a young adult is struggling to afford basic needs, there is also the 211 hotline, calling this number can direct you to helpful resources in your area.

Social Isolation and Connection

Despite increased digital connectivity, young adults can experience loneliness and social isolation due to factors like remote work, delayed milestones (marriage, children), and a shift towards online interactions over in-person ones.

Spending time without technology, and being present with those in your life, can help. But also, therapy can play a huge role in helping young adults face these challenges.

In Summary

Keep in mind that everyone’s path is different. What fulfills you now will look different in the future depending on where you are in your life. One key importance is knowing what support is available for you or how to find it, and learning what works best for you personally! Remember, your path is uniquely yours, and it’s okay for it to evolve. The most important thing is knowing you’re not alone and that there are resources and support systems out there designed to help you thrive.