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Understanding Mental Health Challenges in Young Adults

Understanding Mental Health Challenges in Young Adults

Author: Chioma Ezeobi, BPharm

Reviewed by: Dr Azuka Ezeike, MBBS, FWACS, FMCOG, MSc (PH)

Highlights


  • The journey to adulthood comes with many challenges and opportunities, making young adults more vulnerable to mental health issues.
  • More than 1 in 5 U.S.  young adults aged 18-25 experienced a mental illness in 2021. A figure higher than in other age groups. 
  • Anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and eating disorders are the most common mental health challenges among young adults.
  • Causes of mental health challenges in this age group include life transitions, academic and career pressures, financial stress, social challenges, substance abuse, and genetic factors.
  • Early signs of mental health challenges include withdrawal from activities, persistent sadness, feelings of hopelessness, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep and appetite, and unexplained fatigue.
  • Parents can support their young adults through open communication, respecting their independence, and joining a support group.


Introduction

Change is the only constant in life. For young adults between the ages of 18 to 25, change includes leaving home, starting college or a new job, managing finances, and building relationships. [1]This new phase comes with a lot of demand that can have a negative impact on their mental health. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines mental health as a state of well-being that allows people to manage life stress, use their skills, learn, work, and contribute to their community. Mental health challenges are common among young adults starting life. This age group is particularly vulnerable to anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders.According to a report by the National Institute of Mental Health, more than 1 in 5 U.S. young adults aged 18-25 experienced a mental illness in 2021. A figure higher than in other age groups. This article explores the mental health challenges faced by young adults and actionable steps parents and guardians can take to help.

Common mental health issues in young adults

Anxiety disorders:

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health issue affecting young adults. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) defines anxiety disorder as excessive worry occurring almost every day for at least six months, making it difficult to go about daily activities.A study in 2021 found that 4976.61 per 100,000 of young adults globally are affected by anxiety disorder. Anxiety often comes from pressure to get good grades, choosing career paths, or financial difficulties.The most common types of anxiety disorders in this age group include:

  • Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): Constant and excessive worry about everyday issues like work, school, and relationships.
  • Social anxiety: Fear of social activities due to worries about embarrassment, judgement, or rejection. 
  • Panic disorder: A sudden and intense feeling of fear (panic attacks) when there is no danger. It lasts for several minutes or more with symptoms of a racing heart, shortness of breath, and sweating. [3]
  • Separation anxiety disorder: Extreme fear of being separated from loved ones. This could be fear of losing them or refusal to leave their location lasting for at least six months.


Depression:

It is normal for every young adult to feel sad once in a while. However, experiencing persistent sadness almost every day for two weeks or more is a sign of depression. Depression is a persistent feeling of loneliness, sadness, and failure that affects every aspect of one's life.A  2019 survey found that 21.0% of young adults reported experiencing symptoms of depression.The DSM-5 classifies depressive disorders into:

  • Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder: Emotional meltdowns in children and adolescents that occur at least three or more times a week.
  • Major depressive disorder: Persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in activities for at least two weeks, along with other symptoms.
  • Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia): mild depression symptoms lasting for two years or more.
  • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder: the feeling of low mood and irritation before menstruation. Symptoms usually stop a few days after menstruation.
  • Depressive disorder due to another medical condition: Depression resulting from medical conditions like cancer, thyroid disorder, or Parkinson’s disease. 

Substance and alcohol misuse disorder: 

Many young adults develop substance and alcohol misuse disorders as a way to cope with stress, loneliness, or academic pressures. This may involve:

The human brain continues to develop until age 25, making young adults more vulnerable to the harmful effects of substance and alcohol abuse. With time, these habits can lead to addiction and serious long-term health problems like:

  • Cancers.
  • Respiratory diseases.
  • Cardiovascular diseases.
  • Liver and kidney problems.
  • Birth defects.

Eating disorders:

An eating disorder is an irregular eating pattern caused by concerns about one's body weight and shape. Young adults are often conscious of their appearance and may develop eating disorders. The DSM-5 classified eating disorders into:

  • Anorexia nervosa: The restrictions of food intake which lead to the lack of nutrients needed by the body.
  • Bulimia nervosa: The consumption of a large quantity of food at once and then getting rid of it through vomiting or the use of laxatives.
  • Binge eating: The act of not being able to control overeating.
  • Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder: Avoiding certain foods due to fear of eating consequences like choking or the texture of the food.

These conditions can cause:

  •  Malnutrition
  • Dehydration
  • Damage to vital organs of the body like the heart, brain, gastrointestinal tract, teeth, and bone.


Causes of mental health struggles in young adults

Here are the major causes of mental struggle among young adults.

  1. Life transitions and stress:

Moving out, living alone, or starting a new job can be overwhelming. Many young adults experience stress and lack of purpose or direction, which can lead to mental health issues.

  1. Academic and career pressures: 

Young adults face pressure to succeed academically or in the workforce. This pressure could be from earning high grades or performing well at work. When this pressure is not properly managed, it can cause anxiety and depression.

  1.  Social challenges: 

Maintaining relationships at this age can be quite challenging. Most of their peers are also struggling to navigate adulthood, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and rejection.Additionally, social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok often encourage comparison. The well-edited photos and posts create a false image of achievement, making people feel like failures.

  1. Financial stress:

Handling money for the first time for most people can be a huge burden. Many in this age group have little or no financial literacy. Financial decisions like savings, budgeting, gambling, paying rent, or handling student loans can create anxiety.

  1.  Genetic factors:

Mental health struggles run in families. A young adult is more likely to get mental health challenges if a blood relative has them. [8]

  1. Substance abuse: 

Young adults turn to marijuana and cocaine abuse to cope with stress and trauma. However, the brain area that controls emotions and decision-making is still developing at this age. Introducing substances during this period interferes with growth and increases the risk of mental health disorders.

Signs of mental health struggles

Early detection can help prevent mental health issues from getting worse.

Behavioural Signs:

  • Withdrawal from friends, family, and previously enjoyed social activities.
  • Poor academic or work performance.
  • Increased alcohol or drug use.
  • Changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or excessive sleeping).
  • Excessive anger or hostility.
  • Avoiding food, be it certain or all types of food.
  • Increase sex drive.

Emotional signs:

  • Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or irritability.
  • Inability to bounce back from minor setbacks.
  • Frequent mood swings (changing from happiness to sadness).
  • Excessive worry or anxiety.

Physical signs:

  • Fatigue or lack of energy even after adequate rest.
  • Significant weight loss or gain.
  • Looking dirty and unkempt.
  • Unexplained aches or pain.

Cognitive signs:

  • Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things.
  • Feelings of worthlessness and thinking negatively about oneself.
  • Fears or beliefs that things are not true around one's environment.


At least one persistent sign indicates the need for further evaluation by a qualified medical professional.

How parents can support their young adults

Parents play an important role in helping young adults who are going through mental health challenges. A supportive and understanding approach can hasten improvement.

  1. Encourage open communication:

Create a healthy relationship with your child where they can discuss their feelings and experiences without being judged.

Avoid using remarks like “You’re overthinking” or “Just stay positive”  to dismiss their feelings. These can hurt their feelings and make them recoil into their shell.

  1. Empower them: 

Please do not shy away from discussing with them the best plan for managing their struggles. Topics include medications, counseling, mental health resources, proper diet, exercise, adequate sleep, and how to cope when at college.

  1. Source of support and stability:

Although life transitions can feel chaotic, a reliable support system provides comfort. Always let them know you love them and are there for them. Be consistent with weekly check-ins or small acts of encouragement.

  1. Educate yourself:

Learn about their specific mental health struggle. Equip yourself with information to offer better support and make yourtheir condition less frightening. Websites such as Mental Health America and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration(SAMHSA) can provide information, crisis lines, and connections to treatment centrescenters

  1. Respect their independence:

Young adulthood is a period of independence. Give them space to make their own decisions. Offer advice when asked and avoid controlling their every move.

  1. Encourage healthy coping strategies: 

Help your child find ways to ease off stress through:


  1. Join a support group:

Make connections with parents/caregivers going through similar experiences. Support groups provide valuable knowledge and strategies to help young adults going through mental health challenges.

  1. Help them seek professional support: 

Encourage your young adult to seek professional help if you notice changes in them, such as being moody or anxious for a long period. Therapy can provide them with information on how to manage their emotions and improve recovery.

When to seek professional help

Recognizing when to seek professional intervention ensures your child’s well-being.Signs Indicating the need to seek for help:

  • Persistent symptoms that last several weeks or interfere with day-to-day activities.
  • Expression of suicidal thoughts.
  • Increased substance use.
  • Show hostile or risky behavior.
  • Intense emotional outbursts that disrupt relationships or work.


Conclusion

The transition to young adulthood is an interesting and sometimes turbulent period. With the right support, young adults can manage their mental health challenges effectively. Parents and guidance can help young adults navigate this journey by creating a safe space for open communication, staying informed, and recognizing the signs.

References

  1. Settersten RA, Ray B. Transition to adulthood: What’s going on with young people today? Oregon State University [Internet]. [cited 2025 Feb 23]. Available from: https://health.oregonstate.edu/sites/health.oregonstate.edu/files/hallie-ford/pdf/biblio/transition-to-adulthood-whats-going-on-with-young-poeple-today.pdf
  2. Patel V, Saxena S, Lund C, Thornicroft G, Baingana F, Bolton P, et al. The Lancet Commission on global mental health and sustainable development. Lancet [Internet]. 2015 Apr [cited 2025 Jan 15] 392(10157):1553-98. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4953734/#CIT0017
  3. American Psychiatric Association. What is anxiety disorder? [Internet]. 2023. Available from: https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/anxiety-disorders/what-are-anxiety-disorders
  4. World Health Organization. Depressive disorder. [Internet]. 2023 Mar. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression
  5. Murphy JG, Ashley AD. The behavioral economics of young adult substance abuse PMC [Internet]. 2016 May. 3(92):24-30. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5085883/
  6. National Institute on Drug Abuse. What are the other health consequences of drug addiction? [Internet ]. 2020 Jul. Available from: https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/addiction-health
  7. Bing F, Emily C, Peiyo G, Yanli H, et al. Current discoveries and future implications of eating disorders: [Internet]. 2023 July. 20(14):6325 Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10379623/#B1-ijerph-20-06325
  8. National Institute of Mental Health. Looking at my genes: What can they tell me about my mental health? [Internet]. 2024 Available from: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/looking-at-my-genes#:~:text=Most%20genetic%20variants%20don't,care%20provider%20about%20the%20risks.
  9. American Psychiatric Association: Warning signs of mental illness. APA [Internet]. 2022 Available from:  https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/warning-signs-of-mental-illnes
  10. American Psychiatric Association: Helping a loved one cope with mental illness. APA [Internet].  2022 Nov. Available from: https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/helping-a-loved-one-cope-with-mental-illness#:~:text=Start%20by%20expressing%20your%20concern,Use%20%22I%22%20statements.


Published: February 28, 2025

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