The Mental Health Crisis in Millennials: Why It's Happening & How to Cope
Let’s be honest—things seem to feel heavy lately, right? If it seems as though you’re constantly teetering between “I’m totally fine” and “I might move to the woods and live off the grid,” you’re not alone. And, if you’re part of the millennial generation, it can feel as if you and your peers are in the middle of a full-blown mental health crisis. After all, according to the Mental Health Foundation, a whopping 40% of Millennials (those born between 1981 and 1996) are living with some type of mental health condition.
Why are Millennials so mentally exhausted, and, more importantly, what can we do about it?
Let's explore.
Why Are Millennials Struggling So Much?
Growing up, the adults in our lives told us we could "do anything," yet here we are, drowning in burnout, anxiety, and an economy that thinks eggs and avocado toast are the reason we can't buy houses. Here's a look at a few of the common culprits behind our collective stress spiral:
1. The Economy is a Dumpster Fire
Remember when a single salary could support an entire family with a house, two cars, and a vacation every year? Yeah, neither do we. Stagnant wages, skyrocketing living costs, and student loan debt mean we're working more for less—leaving little room for joy (or, you know, basic financial security).
2. We’re the Burnout Generation
Unlike our parents, who could clock out at 5 PM and forget about work, we exist in a 24/7 hustle culture. Emails at 10 PM? Normal. Side hustles just to afford rent? Expected. The “grind” never stops, and frankly, neither do we—until our bodies force us to.
3. Social Media = The Ultimate Comparison Trap
We love our memes and TikTok rabbit holes, but let's not ignore the damage. Every scroll reminds us that someone else is more successful, attractive, or together than us. (Meanwhile, we're debating if cereal counts as dinner.) The constant comparison is exhausting and a major trigger for anxiety and depression.
4. We’re Living Through (Multiple) Crises
Recession. Climate change. Global pandemics. Political chaos. We experience a new once-in-a-lifetime disaster every few months, and our nervous systems pay the price.
5. We Were Raised to Be “High Achievers”
Millennials were told from a young age that success equals worth. So now, when we’re not constantly doing something productive, we feel guilty. This guilt, in turn, leads to chronic stress, imposter syndrome, and the inability to relax.
How to Cope: Practical Strategies for Staying Sane
Now that we've established the fact that life can be a hot mess, what can we do to protect our mental health? Here are some practical steps to help you reclaim your peace:
1. Set Digital Boundaries (Seriously, Put the Phone Down)
Social media isn't all bad, but it is designed to keep us hooked—and stressed. Try:
✅ Unfollowing accounts that make you feel bad about yourself
✅ Setting time limits on social media apps (yes, even TikTok)
✅ A social media detox (even a weekend away can reset your brain)
2. Prioritize Rest Like It’s Your Job
Burnout isn’t a badge of honor. You don’t have to earn rest—it’s a basic human need. Ways to do this:
✅ Schedule breaks, even if it’s just 5 minutes to stretch or breathe
✅ Protect your weekends (say no to work emails)
✅ Get actual sleep (Netflix will still be there tomorrow)
3. Move Your Body—But Make It Fun
Exercise is terrific for mental health, but thatdoesn't mean you must suffer through a gym routine you hate. Try:
✅ Dancing to your favorite 2000s playlist (yes, “Mr. Brightside” still slaps)
✅ Long walks listening to a podcast or catching up with a friend
✅ a healthy hobby like rock climbing, roller skating, or yoga
4. Stop Tying Your Worth to Productivity
Repeat after me: You are enough, even when you’re doing nothing. Ways to shift your mindset:
✅ Practice “joyful rest” (watch a show without guilt, take naps, do nothing)
✅ Journal about all the things you love about yourself that aren’t related to work (helpful hint: this list should be longer than your work version)
✅ Say no to extra obligations when you’re at capacity5. Find Your People (The Right Ones)Mental health thrives on connection—but not all relationships are created equal.
✅ Surround yourself with people who lift you uprather than drain you
✅ Find a community—whether it’s a hobby group, support group, or just a solid friend circle
✅ Don’t be afraid to seek therapy (it’s not “weak,” it’s self-care)
6. Seek Professional Help When You Need It
If your mental health is affecting your daily life, there’s zero shame in reaching out to a therapist or counselor. Many services offer affordable or even free options:
Talkspace – Online therapy with flexible pricing
7 Cups – Free emotional support chat rooms
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – If you're in crisis, call 988
You’re Not Alone—Let’s Talk About It
As Millennials, we've been through a lot...but we're also wildly resilient. The key to surviving (and thriving) is recognizing that our struggles are validand taking proactive steps to protect our mental well-being.
Now it’s your turn! What are your go-to coping strategies? Drop them in the comments or share this with a friend who needs a reminder that they’re not alone.