Our world continues to shift rapidly, bringing with it a new set of pressures that contribute to rising Gen X and Millennial burnout. As expectations evolve at home and at work, these generations are navigating challenges unlike any before. Below are some of the major stressors currently impacting Gen X and Millennials.
Economic Instability
Millennials and Gen X have entered adulthood during some pretty challenging economic times. Major economic events have shaped financial situations and actively contributed to Millennial and Gen X burnout. Key events include the following:
- Underemployment and a housing market shift following the recession
The timing of these challenges has made typical life milestones seem completely unattainable. The job market was tight for those entering the workforce, wages were stagnant, career growth was capped, student loan debt was rising, the cost of homes was too high, and even starting a family felt irresponsible for some.
Social Media
The exposure to so much social media at a young age has significantly impacted self-esteem and overall well-being. Carefully curated highlight reels of other people’s lives lead to unrealistic standards, and the pressure to document your own life and perform a certain way can add an extra layer of stress.
Hustle Culture Mentality
Hustle culture truly found its peak with these generations. They learned from an early age that productivity is a key indicator of worth.
Side hustles—whether by choice or out of necessity—have become the standard way of life. Networking events and skill-building courses optimize every aspect of life.
The idea of rest instantly triggers guilt. The idea that not constantly working toward something means you’re falling behind is a direct line to chronic exhaustion.
Global Uncertainty
As a whole, these generations have been more concerned with global topics. Climate change, social justice, mental health, and political instability all weigh heavily on the younger generations. Feeling the need to be excessively involved and responsible for fixing the world is overwhelming.
What Can Help the Burnout Struggle?
Recovering from burnout doesn’t have a cookie-cutter solution. Just as the cause is unique, so is the treatment route. Here are some tried-and-true steps you can take toward recovery.
Set Boundaries
Get comfortable saying no. No is a sentence on its own. Start setting boundaries to protect your time and energy in all aspects of your life. If it doesn’t serve you, it shouldn’t be ruling your life.
Prioritize Rest
Rest is a basic necessity for survival. Prioritize quality sleep each night. Build in time for hobbies and moments of stillness. Take breaks when you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Challenge Perfectionism
Perfection isn’t a thing in the real world. It’s subjective at best, and it shouldn’t determine your worth. Practice giving yourself grace and releasing those unrealistic expectations. Making mistakes and learning how to cope with those less than perfect outcomes is known to build resilience, which makes you less prone to anxiety, hopelessness, and depression.
Be Mindful About Reconnecting
Burnout has a way of disconnecting you from what matters. Spend some time reflecting on your values, beliefs, and purpose.
Seek Support
Burnout is a very real phenomenon and not one that you need to navigate alone. Seeing your friends more is also very protective. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, therapy can offer a safe space to slow down and effectively care for yourself. Contact us today to get started.
Author: Jennifer Spencer, PhD, HSPP is the owner of Spencer Psychology, and a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of experience in mental health counseling in Bloomington IN. Spencer Psychology is committed to providing compassionate expert care in-person and by telehealth for Bloomington, the surrounding area and by telehealth for all of Indiana.