Mental health conversations have long been considered taboo, especially for specific generations. Gen X and the Baby Boomer Generation may find it particularly difficult to speak candidly about mental health issues because of their upbringing.
Fortunately, the Millennial generation is working hard to change the negative connotations associated with mental health concerns. Here’s how they’re leading the mental health conversation and what you can do to support their efforts.
Millennials Are Leading the Mental Health Conversation
Gen Y is considered to be born between 1975 and 1995. That means they’re currently in their 30s and 40s, with some pushing 50. They recognize that the views held by previous generations regarding mental health aren’t always accurate or helpful.
They’re constantly challenging the status quo by talking about and prioritizing mental well-being. Here are some of the specific ways Millennials are revolutionizing society’s view of mental health.
Challenging Stigma
If there’s one thing Gen Y excels at, it’s challenging preconceived notions and stigmas. For example, they’ve challenged racial stereotypes and enhanced cultural awareness, educational reforms, and workplace diversity.
They’ve also managed to silence the stigma surrounding mental health concerns. They passionately advocate for their own mental well-being and for others to have easy access to mental healthcare. They’re always ready to have open and honest discussions about mental illness and how to address it.
How You Can Help
You can help Millennials challenge old-fashioned stigmas by normalizing the topic of mental health in your own home. Let your children know it’s just as important to take care of their mental health as it is to care for their physical health.
Explain that talking with a therapist when you need help coping with life is a brave step that can enhance your quality of life. Let them know that therapy doesn’t have to be expensive. They can search for the cheapest therapy options near them if they ever struggle to pay for their mental health needs.
Increasing Awareness
Millennials and their parents (“Gen X-ers”) are some of the first generations to experience a first-in-decades decline in life expectancy. Drug overdoses are the biggest factor in rising mortality rates in younger generations.
Tragically, some mentally troubled youths may turn to drugs to self-medicate and numb their pain. Gen Y is working hard to disrupt this troubling trend by raising awareness of mental health issues and safe treatment options.
Besides psychotherapy, there are also prescription medications formulated to help people struggling with various mental health issues.
How You Can Help
You can help Millennials raise awareness of mental health aids by educating yourself about common mental health conditions and treatment options.
Once you’re well-educated on the topic, you’ll be able to use your knowledge to assist others in seeking the help they need. You could also participate in or organize community events to raise awareness of local mental health resources.
Maximizing Their Digital Influence
Those who are part of Generation Y are highly engaged online, which isn’t surprising considering social media was introduced when they were youngsters. According to studies, approximately 89% of Millennials in the U.S. use social networking sites regularly.
Many choose to use their social media prowess to talk about important, life-changing topics such as mental wellness. Some even use social platforms to share their own mental health journeys in an effort to encourage, enlighten, and educate others.
How You Can Help
You can use your own social media accounts to become a mental health advocate. Whether you or a loved one struggles with mental illness, you can make a difference.
Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have rich communities of mental health advocates sharing advice and personal experiences. You can become part of these communities to keep the conversations regarding mental health positive and constructive.
Demanding Better Support Systems
Millennials sometimes get teased for being so demanding. However, that tendency to be a little bullheaded can work to their advantage when it comes to advocating for mental health concerns.
Gen Y has been demanding better mental health support systems and resources, which can benefit entire communities.
How You Can Help
You can help encourage better support systems for mental health by urging educational institutions and employers to offer mental health resources.
If your employer doesn’t currently prioritize mental health, they may struggle to attract and retain good talent. As a worker, you can add your voice to the rising number of employees advocating for mental health resources in the workplace.
Embracing Preventive and Self-Care Measures
Gen Y is more focused than their Gen X predecessors on using preventive and self-care measures to stay in good physical and mental health.
They recognize the importance of addressing the underlying cause of illness instead of simply masking the symptoms. Millennials are highly dedicated to exercising, meditating, and using holistic solutions to improve their holistic wellness.
They’re also more open to alternative therapies such as acupuncture, aromatherapy, and hypnotherapy.
How You Can Help
Learn as much as you can about preventive and self-care measures that can improve your mental health. Ideas include practicing mindfulness, utilizing deep breathing, and engaging in positive self-talk to maintain mental health.
Addressing Mental Health Concerns: Join the Millennial Movement
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Are you ready to join the noble efforts of Millennials throughout the nation to destigmatize mental health? If so, follow these helpful tips to become a mental health advocate in your home and community.
