Due to the overwhelming uncertainty brought on by the coronavirus pandemic, many Americans are suddenly plunged into stressful situations on a daily basis. Whether it's job loss, the idea of social isolation, or the anxiety brought upon by the growing rates of infection, it's not an easy time for everyone. However, recent studies suggest that younger people are experiencing mental distress even more than older adults. Let's look at how Gen Z and millennials are feeling the stresses of the pandemic more than any other age group.
Young People and the Coronavirus
It can be difficult to understand the effect that COVID-19 has on the younger generation. While we're used to being scolded by our elders, the younger generation is barely even aware of the pandemic. Others argue that young people are actually more aware of the pandemic due to the influence of social media. Due to that increased awareness, they are exposed to more sources of stress than ever before.
One of the most dangerous aspects of the coronavirus is the stress it brings to social life. Most experts agree that social isolation is a huge part of the COVID-19 pandemic, and those who are most vulnerable to social isolation are the young people.
Why are Younger People More Susceptible to Mental Distress?
A new study in May 2020 revealed that more cases of mental distress were reported from younger people compared to the same time period in 2018. However, there are several theories as to why younger people are suffering more from the influx of stress.
1. Young people are more easily influenced by social media.
While it is true that social media is a tremendous outlet for stress relief and general communication, it is also a major source of anxiety. The real-time mirror that social media presents to people is a significant contributor to anxiety, especially as it attracts a huge audience of younger people.
2. Younger people are more likely to have lost a loved one.
The early deaths from the coronavirus have affected everyone. However, it is still more likely that younger people have lost someone due to the pandemic. This is due to the fact that a huge majority of deaths in the pandemic have occurred to individuals above the age of 60. As a result, most families have already suffered tremendous losses, and the stress of losing someone is much more likely to have affected younger people.
3. Young people are more likely to lose their job.
After losing a loved one, the next stages of grief can be some of the most stressful for people. If a person loses a job due to the coronavirus, that creates a tremendous amount of pressure and stress for the family unit. As a result, many families have already begun to go through a period of emotional distress due to the loss of a loved one.
4. Younger people have less financial security.
While it is true that many older adults are dealing with the stress of COVID-19 and financial uncertainty, it is more likely that younger people are in a state of constant stress since they aren't as financially secure as older adults. The inability to buy necessities such as food, shelter, and medicine can create a tremendous amount of stress.
Conclusion
While we might not understand the specific causes of mental distress among young people, we can still help. The best way to help a younger person who is experiencing mental distress is to talk to them. Tell them that you understand and offer them a listening ear. Even if they don't want to talk, there's no need to force them. Simply be there to listen when they are ready.
If you're feeling a little stressed about your current situation or know someone who does, it helps to have someone there to talk to and process your feelings. That's what Hope Seed Support Center is all about. Our hope-centered counseling and therapy sessions for children, teens, and adults are designed to address your needs and help you live a happier and healthier life. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.
