Reasons to Prioritize Therapy as a Young Adult

You’ve recently graduated. The world is full of endless options for your future – college, trade school, travel, a gap year, or whatever else you are considering. Everyone you meet wants to know your plans. But honestly, you have no clue what you want. How overwhelming. Whatever steps you take, you do not have to figure it out on your own. Young adulthood is the perfect time to schedule an appointment to invest in your mental health. Here are some reasons to consider prioritizing therapy during this season of your life:

1. High Stress

According to The Clay Center for Young Healthy Minds, more than 80% of college students reported feeling overwhelmed 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.

2. Comparison

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.

3. Shifting Relationships

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.

4. 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 U.S. 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.

5. Forming Habits of Life

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. 

Give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

References:

The Clay Center for Young Healthy Minds (https://www.mghclaycenter.org/parenting-concerns/college-mental-health-crisis-call-cultural-change-part-2/)

Pew Research Center (https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/fact-sheet/social-media/)

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (https://www.hhs.gov/healthcare/about-the-aca/young-adult-coverage/index.html)