Reasons to Prioritize Therapy as a Young Adult

Congratulations, graduate! You did it — and now the world is wide open.

College, trade school, a gap year, travel, jumping straight into the workforce — the options are genuinely endless, and everyone in your life seems to have an opinion about which path you should choose. Meanwhile, you might be feeling something nobody talks about enough: the anxiety, uncertainty, and emotional exhaustion that can come with major life transitions.

It's okay not to have it all figured out. In fact, that feeling of now what? is one of the most universal experiences of young adulthood and one of the most valid reasons to invest in your mental health right now.

Graduating is exciting, but transitions are hard. Whether you're navigating a new city, a new identity, shifting friendships, or just the pressure of everyone asking about your "five-year plan," therapy during this season of life can be genuinely life-changing. You don't have to figure it out alone and you don't have to wait until you're in crisis to reach out.

Here's why so many young adults navigating post-graduation transitions are making therapy a priority:

High achievement stress

According to The Clay Center for Young Healthy Minds, more than 80% of college students reported f in the last year. The demands of studying, athletics, clubs, and work can pile up. Even if you are not currently in school, the stressors of life can be equally as challenging. Sometimes, stress can even manifest in physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches. Learning skills to manage stress in therapy can equip you to be more successful.

comparison is the thief of joy

The rise of social media has been swift. The Pew Research Center reports that, in 2021, 84% of young adults were using social media sites. The ability to connect with others online is amazing, but it does come with some challenging consequences.

As you are navigating your own life path, it can be hard to see peers making different choices. Perhaps you were feeling quite happy with your choice to go to a school close to home. Then, you see a friend post about their amazing study abroad experience. Comparison can steal joy and contentment. Therapy allows you the space to process and challenge negative thoughts.

shifting relationships and expectations

Friendships change in young adulthood. Maybe you had a high school group of friends straight out of a Disney Channel movie. As you graduate, it is natural to go separate ways. Sometimes, you will stay connected. Other times, you might not talk very much anymore. Family relationships change too. The dynamic with your parents might look different. You might have more of a desire to be self-sufficient. Speaking with a therapist can increase your ability to handle change.

your parents' insurance policy

Speaking of parents, a very practical reason to prioritize therapy as a young adult is the ability to use your parents’ insurance policy. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, many young adults are able to remain on their parents’ insurance until they are 26 years old. It could be worth checking with your parents to see if that could be an option for you. It can keep the cost of therapy down.

forming healthy habits 

Lastly, prioritizing therapy as a young adult helps to set up habits for life. It provides the opportunity for you to get used to having therapy in your schedule. Your therapist can also support you in building healthier habits with food, money, and time management. 

Call Lifeologie Counseling to find a therapist near you who specializes in helping young adults navigate major life transitions!