Why Are So Many Young Adults Struggling with Mental Health?

Hello, everyone, and welcome. I’m so glad you’re joining me today for a discussion that feels more important than ever: Why are so many young adults struggling with mental health issues?

Have you noticed it too? Among friends, family, or even within yourself—anxiety, depression, and difficulty concentrating seem to be a shared experience for many in their 20s and 30s.

At Empathy Health, we see this every day, and the stories are powerful. Young adults navigating a world that’s fast-changing, often overwhelming, and increasingly uncertain. But why is this happening? What’s causing so many to feel this way, and, more importantly, what can we do to help?

In today’s episode, we’ll explore:

• How to recognize mental health struggles in young adults.
• The societal and personal pressures contributing to these challenges.
• Specific coping mechanisms to help you or someone you care about navigate this journey.

So, let’s start by identifying the signs of mental health challenges in young adults.

Signs of Mental Health Issues in Young Adults

Mental health struggles can sometimes be hard to spot. They don’t always present as dramatic breakdowns—in fact, they often hide behind day-to-day behaviors. 

Let’s look at some key signs:

Persistent Sadness or Irritability

Many young adults dealing with mental health issues report feeling a consistent sense of sadness, emptiness, or irritability. While we all have off days, if these feelings last for weeks or even months, they may be more than just a phase.

Social Withdrawal

Pulling back from friends, family, and activities they used to enjoy is another sign. Social withdrawal can mean canceling plans, spending more time alone, or feeling disconnected from others, which often happens when someone feels overwhelmed by stress or anxiety.

Changes in Sleep or Appetite

Significant changes in sleep patterns or eating habits are often early indicators. Young adults might experience insomnia, sleeping too much, or inconsistent eating, which can point to anxiety, depression, or other underlying issues.

Difficulty Concentrating or Focusing

Concentration issues go beyond occasional distractions. A noticeable decline in productivity or an inability to focus on tasks, whether at school, work, or daily activities, can suggest struggles with mental health, especially if it’s happening regularly.

A common misconception is that difficulty focusing is simply a matter of willpower, but there’s much more to it. For instance, conditions like ADHD and anxiety can significantly impair concentration, creating a cycle where mental health struggles exacerbate focus issues and vice versa.

Fortunately, there are ways to address this. Simple lifestyle adjustments, mindfulness techniques, and structured routines can all help. For a detailed look at practical, expert-backed strategies, you might find this guide on How to Improve Concentration and Focus incredibly helpful. It’s a great resource for understanding how to break free from mental fatigue and sharpen your focus in a sustainable way.

Physical Symptoms Without Clear Causes

Stress often manifests physically. If someone is constantly dealing with unexplained headaches, stomach issues, or fatigue, it could be linked to mental health.

Feeling Overwhelmed or Hopeless

A persistent sense of hopelessness or the belief that things will never improve can be a serious indicator of depression or burnout. If a young adult starts expressing feelings like there’s “no way out” or becomes overwhelmed by even small challenges, it may go beyond typical stress.

In such cases, they might need to seek depression therapy.

Depression is like a ticking time bomb.

If left unaddressed, it can escalate and significantly affect all areas of life, including relationships, work, and overall health. Early intervention is crucial, whether through therapy, counseling, or other professional mental health resources. The sooner it’s addressed, the better the chances of recovery and regaining control over life.

Recognizing these signs isn’t about labeling someone—it’s about identifying when help could make a difference. 

And remember, it’s okay to seek help. Early intervention can save someone from a lot of unnecessary pain.

Why Do Young Adults Struggle With Mental Health?

This brings us to the big question: Why?

 Why are mental health struggles so prevalent among young adults today?

There isn’t one answer—it’s a mix of societal, personal, and cultural factors that interact in complex ways. 

Let’s break it down.

Social Media Pressure and Comparison Culture

One huge factor is social media.

I mean, it’s everywhere, right? And it can be hard to look away. Young people today are connected like never before, and while that has its perks, there’s also a constant comparison game going on.

How social media affects mental health in young people.

The way we see social media is a double-edged sword.

It connects us, but it also creates comparisons. You log in, and suddenly you’re seeing friends, or even strangers, who seem to have it all. You’re looking at filtered lives, people’s highlight reels, and thinking, “Am I falling behind?”

When we’re constantly exposed to images of “perfect” lifestyles, it can create a pretty toxic mindset. We start doubting ourselves, questioning if we’re enough or if we’re missing out on something better.

And it’s not just about the content we see; it’s the time we spend. Think about it—hours on our screens, with fewer real-life interactions. We’re wired to connect, but this kind of “connection” can leave us feeling more isolated.

One young woman we worked with shared something powerful: “I feel like everyone’s life is moving forward, except mine.”

And this comparison trap? It’s exhausting.

A study even found that the more time people spent on social media, the more likely they were to feel anxious and depressed. Now, think about young adults who are in those prime years of identity formation. It’s hard not to let that constant feedback impact how you see yourself.

So, I want to say to anyone feeling this—take breaks from social media. 

We don’t often realize it, but those little breaks to unplug can really help reset our perspective. I know this can be challenging when your friends are online or you want to keep up with trends, but just taking a break, even for a few hours a day, can make a difference.

What about the pressure to succeed and constant comparison?

We have talked to hundreds of our younger clients, and they all share the same feeling. They constantly seek affirmation and high expectations. 

Many young adults feel this constant pressure to “have it all together” by a certain age. Whether it’s having a steady job, a perfect relationship, or financial stability, there’s this unwritten expectation that you should “have it figured out.” But life isn’t that simple, and the timeline for success varies from person to person. This pressure leads to stress.

And we know stress doesn’t just stay in your mind; it impacts the body, too.

The heart beats faster, muscles get tense, and sleep quality suffers. Long-term stress can lead to anxiety, which becomes more than just feeling nervous—it’s a feeling of dread that can be hard to shake.

I had a client share once, “It’s like I can’t turn my brain off. I go to bed, and it’s like my thoughts are racing. I feel exhausted before I’ve even started my day.” That’s the kind of pressure young adults face now, and it’s not just in school or work—it’s everywhere.

I want to quote a therapist I know, who says, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” If you’re constantly looking at someone else’s success, you can start to feel like you’re falling behind, even if you’re actually doing well on your own path. 

This type of pressure can create this anxious feeling that you’re never doing enough.

Financial Pressures and Career Uncertainty

Another thing that’s weighing heavily on young adults? The economy. 

For many, it’s more than just numbers on a screen; it’s their future. Think about it: a lot of young people are stepping into a pretty unforgiving job market. Rising costs of living, and massive student debt—these are stressors that didn’t necessarily impact previous generations in the same way.

It’s not just about money either – there’s a lot of career uncertainty out there. I think we can all relate to hearing, “What do you want to do with your life?” when honestly, many people don’t have a clear answer, especially in their 20s. 

And that uncertainty? It brings a lot of pressure and a lot of anxiety.

A resource found in Harvard states that young adults are more likely to experience job insecurity, which can lead to higher rates of anxiety and depression. And it’s understandable, right? If you’re unsure where your next paycheck is coming from or worried about affording rent, it’s going to impact your mental state. 

Financial stress is one of those things that weighs heavily on our minds. You can’t just brush it off, especially when it’s a daily concern.

So, if this resonates, know you’re not alone. Many are facing these same worries, and there are people out there who can guide you through it. Financial counselors, for example, or resources on budgeting and managing debt can take a bit of that weight off. 

It’s not an instant fix, but every step helps.

Academic and Performance Pressures

Now, let’s talk about school.

Education and career performance have become more demanding than ever. Young adults often feel like they’re in a constant race. Whether it’s for top grades, competitive internships, or career milestones.

One young client once said, “It feels like every decision I make could ruin my future.”

That kind of pressure creates a fear of failure that can paralyze. If you’re feeling this way, remember that success doesn’t have a strict timeline. 

I’d encourage you to focus on progress rather than perfection. Learning and growth don’t happen overnight, and that’s okay. Celebrate small wins, and remember that setbacks don’t define your worth.

The Stigma Around Mental Health Is Finally Breaking

Interestingly, part of the reason we’re seeing higher rates of mental health issues reported today is that people are more comfortable talking about them. This is a positive shift.

Increased awareness means more people are seeking help, sharing their stories, and advocating for mental health resources. If you’re struggling, remember this: Speaking out isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of strength.

How to Improve Mental Health for Young Adults

So, what can young adults do to nurture their mental health? Let’s get practical now. If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, here are actionable coping strategies that can make a difference:

• Digital Detox: Set screen-free hours in your day, especially around bedtime. Replacing screen time with journaling, reading, or meditating can improve mental clarity.
• Physical Activity: Even a 20-minute walk can reduce stress and boost mood. You don’t need an intense workout—just consistent movement.
• Mindfulness Practices: Try meditation or breathing exercises. Apps like Calm or Headspace can guide you through these practices if you’re new to them.
• Creative Outlets: Art, writing, music, or cooking—engaging in something creative can help channel emotions in a positive way.
• Build a Support Network: Stay connected with friends and family, and don’t hesitate to seek support from a counselor or therapist. Professional help isn’t a last resort—it’s a smart decision..
• Set Realistic Goals: Break larger tasks into smaller steps. Celebrate progress, no matter how small, and give yourself grace during setbacks.
• Prioritize Sleep and Nutrition: Mental health thrives on physical health. Stick to consistent sleep schedules and balanced meals to support your body and mind.

Exercise, creative outlets, meditation, or simply talking to someone you trust—these are things that can help ground you. If social media or news feeds make you anxious, try replacing that time with something that recharges you instead.

And don’t be afraid to reach out for professional help if you need it. There’s a lot of value in talking to someone who can provide strategies tailored just for you.