In today’s fast-paced world, it feels as though we are constantly carrying the weight of the world on our shoulders while facing one crisis after another. The barrage of troubling news, from political upheavals and environmental disasters to wars and economic instability, can feel overwhelming. This is especially true for young people who are growing up in an era defined by uncertainty.
As a mental health professional, I’ve witnessed firsthand how today’s global events deeply affect the younger generation (and ourselves.) Many of them are experiencing heightened levels of anxiety, helplessness, and even burnout. While it’s natural to feel distressed by the state of the world, it’s crucial to recognize how these events are impacting their mental health—and what we can do to help young people manage the weight of these global challenges. (As well as help ourselves.)
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I mentioned the Bowling Alone video with Robert Putnam: About social capital. Social capital is Social capital refers to the networks, relationships, and connections that help us navigate life’s challenges, unlock opportunities, and build support systems. It’s like having an invisible bank account filled not with money, but with trust, shared values, and the goodwill of others.
My Anxiety Story
Takeaways from the episode here:
Why Are Young People Feeling So Overwhelmed?
Young people today are more connected to the world than ever before. Social media and constant access to news have given them unprecedented exposure to global events. While this connectivity can be empowering, it also means they are continuously bombarded with distressing news from around the globe.
- Political Division and Anxiety: Elections, such as the upcoming U.S. election, can fuel anxiety and division. Young people often feel caught in a whirlwind of information, unsure of their place or the impact of their voices. With partisan rhetoric and polarizing debates dominating the media, many feel overwhelmed by the weight of political decision-making and its consequences.
- The Climate Crisis: Natural disasters like wildfires, hurricanes, and floods, worsened by climate change, contribute another layer of stress. For many young people, climate change feels like an urgent and deeply personal issue, especially as they witness its direct effects on their communities and futures. The looming environmental crisis makes it difficult for them to feel optimistic about what’s ahead.
- Global Conflicts and Instability: Add to this the instability caused by conflicts around the world—such as the ongoing crises in Lebanon and other regions—and it’s no surprise that young people are struggling with feelings of helplessness and despair. The constant flood of news about violence and humanitarian disasters leaves many feeling powerless to create meaningful change.
The Emotional Impact of Constant Global Crises
So, how are these overwhelming global events affecting young people emotionally? Anxiety and stress are common reactions. The unrelenting news cycle can lead to sleepless nights, difficulty concentrating, and feeling constantly on edge. For some, the weight of the world’s problems becomes so overwhelming that it leads to a sense of apathy or burnout—a feeling that no matter what they do, nothing will change.
This can result in a paralyzing sense of being stuck, unsure of how to move forward or regain a sense of control. These emotions are valid and real. It’s essential that we recognize them, validate young people’s experiences, and offer ways to manage these feelings constructively.
How Can We Support Ourselves in These Challenging Times?
Supporting young people through this emotionally charged era starts with small, intentional actions. Here are some practical ways to help them manage their stress and anxiety in a healthy way:
- Limit News and Social Media Exposure: Encourage young people to set boundaries with their media consumption. Constant “doomscrolling” can amplify anxiety and make the world feel even more chaotic. Taking intentional breaks from the news, setting time limits for social media use, and focusing on positive or solution-oriented content can make a significant difference.
- Foster Open Conversations: Creating safe spaces for young people to talk about their fears, anxieties, and concerns is critical. Whether through family discussions, peer groups, or community spaces, it’s important to listen to their worries without judgment and help them feel heard. Open conversations can alleviate the emotional burden many young people carry in silence.
- Promote Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Teaching practical coping strategies can help young people manage their stress. Mindfulness exercises such as deep breathing, meditation, or journaling can offer moments of calm in a chaotic world. Physical activities like yoga, walking, or team sports are also great ways to reduce stress and refocus energy.
- Encourage Community Engagement: Getting involved in local activism or community projects can transform feelings of helplessness into empowerment. Whether it’s organizing beach cleanups, volunteering at local charities, or advocating for policy changes, even small acts of engagement can make a big difference in helping young people feel that they are part of the solution.
Empowering Young People for the Future
Key Takeaways:
- Accept your emotional bandwidth – It’s okay to acknowledge that you can’t fix everything. Focus on what you can do in your own small corner of the world.
- Self-compassion is crucial – Be kind to yourself when dealing with the heaviness of the world. It’s okay to take breaks and rest.
- Humor as a coping tool – Laughing in the face of adversity isn’t about dismissing the seriousness of the situation, but about giving yourself a mental break.
- Community is powerful – Even small efforts to connect with others, whether through joining a club or supporting a friend, can have a ripple effect on emotional resilience.
- Find hope in action – Doing something, even if it feels small, can alleviate feelings of helplessness. Whether it’s picking up trash, donating, or simply being kind, it all counts.
While we cannot change the fact that the world is in turmoil, we can change how we respond to it—and how we help young people respond. By supporting their emotional well-being, teaching them effective coping strategies, and encouraging them to take meaningful action in their communities, we can help them build resilience in the face of uncertainty.
At the end of the day, you want to feel understood, empowered, and capable of making a difference. You need to know that while the challenges you face are significant, you have the tools to navigate these turbulent times and contribute to a better future.
It’s natural to feel overwhelmed during times of global uncertainty. However, it’s important to remember that none of us are alone in these feelings. By continuing to have open conversations, offering support, and taking small steps toward action, we can build a more hopeful and resilient future for our youth.
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