Stress Over the Future: The Unknown
Growing up comes with a lot of challenges as well as new freedom: being able to decide what you want to do in the future, to live and go where you want, and to make huge lifestyle changes. This comes with a lot of stress about what decisions to make and what lies ahead of you, whether it be college, the workforce, or other major life path branches.
Common Causes
- Unprecedented events in the news
- Bleak predictions about the world's future state
- Regularly thinking about major milestones in the future, like college, life after college, future relationships, etc.
- Unforseen events in a friend or loved one's life that affects your life
- Major life transitions, some examples including moving, divorce, and breakups
How to De-stress
- Center yourself with what is tangible and present, and remember that you are in the "now."
- You can't change the entire trajectory of the world, but you can do your part to make sure you're prepared for what's to come, or help improve things like climate change with the simpler actions.
- Talk with others you trust! These big feelings about the unknown are valid, and even if your friend can't help you carry the world, they can help you feel like you're not alone as you tackle whatever the world throws at you.
Resources
We are not trained professionals, so if any of this advice does not work for you, please seek further help from medical professionals.