Millennials and Anxiety: Let's Talk About It

The millennial generation has experienced distinct challenges that have led to high levels of anxiety. In childhood, millennials were raised with movies where parents die, and then they quickly learned that schools were unsafe following the Columbine shooting. In 2020, millennials witnessed the masses stockpile supplies in preparation for Y2K, and only one year later every tv screen in the U.S. displayed footage of 9/11 on repeat. Then came war and the Great Recession. The list only continues and really has never stopped since. With a timeline like this, the millennial generation was raised to be anxious through no fault of their own.

If you're reading this and it's hitting close to home, then you're in the right place. While you cannot rewrite the past you have lived and witnessed, you can make changes to help manage your anxiety more effectively today. Here are a few ways to get started:

Trauma Screen Breaks

"Trauma screen breaks" are needed to reduce added anxiety. Whether you go looking for it or not, trauma is constantly accessible and in your face through social media, the news, Youtube, etc. One scroll through your feed can leave you with images of war, famine, violence, and abuse. The human brain is not designed to hold the amount of trauma that can be witnessed on a screen.

Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness practices are a great way to ease anxiety by helping you stay in the present moment and stop overthinking about the past or the future. Apps like Headspace and Calm offer guided meditation sessions, making it easy to integrate mindfulness into daily life.

Physical Activity

Regular physical activity is a proven method for boosting mental health. Exercise releases endorphins that improve your mood and alleviate anxiety symptoms. Research has shown that even a brisk 30-minute walk can reduce anxiety levels and enhance overall well-being.

Building a Support Network

Creating a robust support system with your friends and family is crucial. Connections provide emotional encouragement, making it easier to face life’s challenges. Open conversations about anxiety can strengthen bonds and relieve stress, promoting a healthier mental environment.

Seeking Professional Help

If trying the tools above does not feel like enough, then therapy can provide valuable support. There are specific types of therapy like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy that are proven to be effective in treating anxiety. If you need help finding a therapist, please see Finding a New Therapist: Where to Look and How to Choose.

Moving Forward with Awareness

Being an anxious millennial today doesn't mean you have to remain one for the rest of your life. By recognizing the challenges and using effective management tools, you can live a more calm and enjoyable life.