Millennials Facing Existential Exhaustion: A New Perspective
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The concept of a mid-life crisis is evolving. As the eldest millennials approach their 40s, we aren't witnessing the typical behaviors of previous generations, like impulsive car purchases or sudden marital changes. Instead, this age group is encountering something more profound and concerning: a pervasive sense of exhaustion. This isn’t the ordinary fatigue from long work hours; it’s a deeper, more chronic state of disillusionment that closely resembles clinical depression.
Research backs this observation. Millennials report higher rates of anxiety and depression diagnoses compared to previous generations. While part of this trend may stem from greater awareness and sensitivity, it is not the sole reason. This generation is also noted for its significant disengagement from work and a profound mistrust in societal institutions.
Historically, a mid-life crisis was marked by bold, often misguided decisions, but now it seems to manifest as a heavy sigh followed by the desire to escape reality. How did we arrive at this point, and what implications does it hold for the future of millennials?
The Role of Information
In earlier times, even with access to television news and print media, ignorance about global issues was somewhat easier to maintain. A half-hour news segment provided limited exposure to conflicts, disasters, and other societal problems. While those issues have existed throughout history, the relentless barrage of information today is unprecedented.
This situation is reminiscent of the misconception that crime rates have continually risen. In reality, crime has decreased in many urban areas, but increased media coverage creates a distorted perception.
In the mid-20th century, people learned about significant events primarily through a few articles or brief news segments, without the constant stream of outrageous comments from politicians or the incessant noise of social media. Back then, one could go about daily life believing that society was largely rational and well-intentioned.
Now, it’s easy to see the numerous ways in which our systems are flawed or obstructive. Individuals might have been aware of these issues through personal encounters, but they weren’t inundated with countless anecdotal accounts of injustice and misconduct.
Consider checking into a luxury hotel; everything appears pristine until you inspect it under a UV light, revealing the hidden filth. Millennials have lived their entire adult lives with this metaphorical UV light switched on, exposed to the harsh realities of life since their teenage years with the advent of the internet.
Expectations vs. Reality
I tend to be cynical, recognizing that the notion of a “world as your oyster,” which many grew up believing, is a misleading concept. Each generation faces challenges in mid-life as they realize their potential is often overshadowed by limitations.
Health issues, legal troubles, or academic setbacks can significantly narrow one's career options. A former colleague of mine summed it up succinctly: "Life is hard, and then you die." While this perspective might not be the healthiest, it does provide a realistic outlook, minimizing disappointment.
The ease of information sharing has complicated millennials' experiences. They can quickly discover wage disparities or the daunting odds against career advancement, leading to a clearer understanding of life's difficulties.
Misinformation is rampant in today's digital landscape. In the past, applying for jobs involved human interaction, but now it's often a faceless, automated process, leaving many feeling rejected without explanation.
Parenting advice has also shifted over the years. Many millennials received the message that higher education would ensure success, yet the reality is a heavy burden of student debt without corresponding job prospects. The expectation of a degree guaranteeing a successful career has turned into a harsh reality of fierce competition and unmet promises.
The Impact of Social Media
Social media exacerbates mental health struggles. When disillusioned with their own lives, millennials are bombarded with images of others seemingly thriving. Online platforms allow for curated representations of life, which often omit struggles and failures.
Friends might post glamorous vacation photos, conveniently ignoring the chaos that often follows such moments. Social media constructs a fictional reality, similar to scripted television shows, leading to feelings of inadequacy and despair among viewers.
The current landscape can be particularly harsh for those already vulnerable to mental health issues. Constant exposure to others' successes can deepen feelings of isolation and disappointment.
Moreover, social media amplifies polarization. Individuals can find like-minded communities that validate extreme beliefs, rather than challenging them, which can lead to dangerous actions.
Conclusion
Given the deluge of negative news, rising expectations, and the amplification of fringe voices, it’s no surprise that millennials face significant mental health challenges. This has been their reality throughout adulthood.
Timothy Leary famously said, “turn on, tune in, drop out.” Perhaps we should consider a new mantra: “turn off (devices), tune out (the news), drop in (on friends).” Our current media landscape is detrimental to our well-being.
We must prioritize mental health awareness and support systems while encouraging individuals to seek help without fear. It's crucial to safeguard a generation facing mental health crises, especially in these challenging times.