Experts Warn of Alarming Rise in Anxiety Among Young Adults in the Wake of COVID-19 Pandemic

Experts Warn of Alarming Rise in Anxiety Among Young Adults in the Wake of COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the lives of countless individuals globally. With the implementation of safety measures like lockdowns, quarantines, and social distancing, people have been compelled to alter their lifestyles. This drastic disruption has had an unfavorable effect on young adults, especially in regards to their mental health.

According to a report by the World Health Organization, an estimated 10-20 percent of children and adolescents worldwide face mental disorders. With the pandemic, the rise in anxiety levels has become a growing concern. A study conducted by the American Psychological Association revealed that COVID-19 has affected the mental health status of almost eight in ten U.S. adults. Young adults(aged 18 to 24) have been the worst affected, with approximately 9 in 10 of them experiencing stress in the wake of the pandemic.

This outbreak has caused so much chaos and disorientation, causing young adults to feel disheartened about their ability to pursue the future they envisioned. There are multiple stresses that this age group needs to grapple with – academic pressure, career choices, and interpersonal relationships. The uncertainty of the future has only made it worse for them.

Currently, young adults face unprecedented challenges regarding higher education, the job market, and career opportunities. Academic institutions are struggling to move to online education, with several universities canceling classes altogether. This situation fastens young adults’ lives, causing uncertainty and confusion when it comes to academic pursuits. This uncertainty has led to anxiety and depression levels among students skyrocketing.

The changes in the job market have made young adults wary of their career prospects. Job offers have become hard to come by, and unemployment rates are on the rise. With the pandemic’s economic volatility, recruitment rates have dropped, leading to a bleak outlook for job seekers. The ‘gig economy’ has seen a significant drop, with many youngsters unable to find stable work opportunities. All these factors have added to their already overwhelming stress levels.

Interpersonal relationships, which have always been important to young adults, have become more challenging to develop due to a lack of contact. Families, friends, and dating partners are not easily accessible, affecting young adults’ mental health. They can no longer get together with their friends or access the hands-on guidance of their mentors. This lack of support has only worsened their anxiety levels.

To combat this rise in anxiety, young adults need to prioritize self-care. Self-care can be anything, from taking walks to meditating, reading, or practicing yoga. Doing things that make one feel happy or fulfilled will help with mental health. They can also engage in activities with loved ones through video call, book clubs, or online trivia quizzes.

In addition, universities should encourage students to seek counseling services that mental health experts provide. These initiatives will give students the confidence to prioritize their mental health, making them better equipped to handle the stress brought on by the pandemic.

In conclusion, the pandemic has brought unparalleled disruption to young adults, leading to an alarming increase in anxiety levels among them. Stressors that include academic pressure, career opportunities, relationships, and uncertainty about the future have all exacerbated anxiety levels. However, prioritizing mental health through self-care and counseling services can help young adults feel more equipped to combat anxiety.