Youthfulness, health, beauty, energy mostly defines people in their twenties but they are still seeking clarity. The young adult period is characterized by rapid physiological, sexual, cognitive, and emotional changes, goodtherapy.org said.
The transition from adolescent to adult becomes apparent as one completes the process of physical maturation and secondary sexual characteristics become fully formed. Many young adults also move into new adult roles and responsibilities.
They may begin higher education studies, enter the workforce, move away from home, or start a family.
They may be expected to accept responsibility for themselves legally, make decisions for themselves, and—in many cases—are often encouraged to begin supporting themselves financially.
Erikson referred to the young adult period as “intimacy vs. isolation” in his eight stages of development, describing it as the period when individuals often begin intimate relationships after developing a sense of identity.
‘Confusing’
According to Harvard Bussiness Review, “being in your twenties is often confusing and lonely, as two independent studies published this year found. When young adults get their first jobs and move into their own apartments, they’re going it alone, usually for the first time.
“Moreover, as they attempt to establish their status as adults, their environment sends them mixed messages: regardless of their professional or personal achievements, they are still considered by others to be “kids,” especially before they marry and have children.
This prolonged interim state results in a lot of pain, and some studies suggest today’s young people are suffering more than previous generations did.
For instance, the average age for the onset of depression has dropped from the late forties or early fifties, where it was 30 years ago, to mid-twenties, and it’s expected to drop further. Psychologists aren’t entirely sure why; it’s likely due to a mix of factors.
Regardless of the cause, the quarter-life crisis often spans several years and includes four typical stages.
It starts with a feeling of being locked into a commitment at work or at home: people take on jobs, rent apartments, and enter relationships, but then feel trapped in pretending adulthood.
Then, at some point, they leave their romantic partners, jobs, or social groups and become separated and lonely.
They spend the worst part of this crisis reflecting and recalibrating their plans, alone and isolated until eventually they go out and explore new hobbies, interests, and social groups, finally emerging at the other side of the crisis happier, more motivated, and with a greater sense of clarity.
This process can last for years, or repeat itself. It is a painful process, but it is also a tremendous growth opportunity, as it can create individuals who go on to lead more meaningful and happier lives.
Solutions
Nerina Garcia-Arcement, a clinical psychologist and clinical assistant professor at NYU School of Medicine, suggests six tips to help people in their 20s cope with mental health issues more common to that age group:
1. Seek out and form strong support networks.
2. Seek out others who are going through similar experiences and share your feelings, whether you are feeling worried, nervous, scared, sad, confused, or excited.
3. Know that you are not alone in your confusion about your career and relationships.
4. Seek out mentors who have achieved their goals, and ask for advice.
5. If you are feeling stress, sadness, or anxiety, engage in activities that will help you manage those feelings such as yoga, meditation, exercise, hobbies, social activities, relaxation exercises, and deep breathing.
6. If you feel you are not getting the necessary support and feel overwhelmed or depressed, seek out mental health professionals who can help you manage the feelings related to your life transitions.
Culled from: 1. https://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/mental-health-20s-stress-0724125/
2. https://hbr.org/2016/03/why-your-late-twenties-is-the-worst-time-of-your-life
