Young Adults and Mental Health: Why It’s Time to Take it Seriously
Mental health is one of the most critical – yet often overlooked – aspects of a person’s overall health. And when it comes to young adults, mental health should be taken seriously now more than ever.
A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that suicide rates among young adults have increased dramatically in recent years. Suicide is now the second leading cause of death for people aged 10-34 in the United States. Several factors can contribute to mental health problems in young adults. Here are just a few of the most known suggestions by My Denver Therapy.
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Social Media
A study from the University of Pennsylvania found that people who spend more time on social media are more likely to report feeling lonely, isolated, and depressed. Social media can also be a breeding ground for cyberbullying, compounding mental health issues.
Cyberbullying is a serious problem that can affect a person’s mental health. Cyberbullying is using electronic communications to bully another person and can include threats, harassment, and humiliation. So, for example, when a young person is repeatedly harassed or ridiculed online, it can take a serious toll on their mental health.
Substance Abuse
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, about one in four college students report struggling with substance abuse. This can include anything from alcohol and tobacco to prescription drugs and illegal substances. Substance abuse can lead to several mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, and even psychosis.
This is because most of these substances contain chemicals that can alter the way the brain functions. In addition, your brain is still developing well into your 20s, so it’s especially vulnerable to the effects of drugs and alcohol. So when young adults experiment with substances, their brain development can be severely impacted – sometimes permanently.
Lack of Sleep
It’s no secret that young adults often don’t get enough sleep. A study from the University of Michigan found that about one in three college students gets less than six hours of sleep per night. This can severely impact mental health, as lack of sleep can lead to problems like anxiety and depression. It can also make concentrating difficult, which can impact school performance. Not getting enough sleep is also linked to increased risk-taking behaviors, which can compound mental health issues.
A good sleep routine is crucial for a variety of reasons. Firstly sleep allows our bodies to recover from the day physically. It’s also when our brains consolidate memories and sort through information we’ve taken in.
If we don’t get enough sleep, we may struggle to remember things or focus the next day. Secondly, sleep deprivation can lead to moodiness and irritability. When we’re tired, it’s harder to regulate our emotions, resulting in us snapping at people or overreacting to situations. Lastly, a lack of sleep can make us more susceptible to developing mental health problems such as anxiety and depression.
Relationships
Relationships – both romantic and platonic – can have a significant impact on mental health. According to the CDC, about one in four adults aged 18-24 reported feeling “sad or hopeless” because of relationship problems in the past year.
Relationship issues can include anything from breakups and divorce to family conflict and friends moving away. These types of problems can lead to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, you must have a support system of family and friends that you can rely on when times are tough.
Academic pressure
The academic world is more competitive than ever before. With the pressure to succeed comes increased anxiety and stress. For some students, this can be overwhelming and lead to mental health issues. Academics are one of the top arguments that parents and young adults have.
This is because parents want their children to succeed and be able to provide for them in the future. However, the academic world is changing, and it’s important to remember that not everyone can be at the top of their class. It’s okay not to be perfect.
It’s important to remember that mental health is just as important as physical health. Just like seeing a doctor for a physical illness, it’s essential to seek help from a mental health professional if you’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or depressed.
If you are struggling with mental health, find a therapist in Jackson Michigan. Therapists can help you work through your issues and provide you with the tools you need to cope with stress and anxiety. Don’t be afraid to seek help if you’re struggling. It’s nothing to be ashamed of. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and there is no shame in seeking help.
