Why Adulting Causes Anxiety—And What You Can Do About It
For many young adults, the transition from structured school environments to the uncharted territory of independent living can feel less like a smooth graduation and more like being thrown into the deep end. The concept of “adulting,” taking on all the responsibilities that come with growing up, can be a significant source of stress and anxiety.
Why Adulting Triggers Anxiety
So, why does “adulting” often come with panic? It’s a complex mix of new pressures, societal expectations, and a general sense of unpreparedness.
Financial Pressures: Suddenly, you’re responsible for your own money. Rent, bills, student loan repayments, groceries, it all adds up. The fear of not having enough or making a wrong financial move can be a constant source of worry.
Career Uncertainty: Deciding on a career path, landing a job, and then navigating the professional world can be daunting. The pressure to succeed, the competition with peers, and the instability of some entry-level roles can fuel significant anxiety.
Relationship Shifts: As you move out of your childhood home, establish new routines, and your friends embark on different paths, relationships evolve. You might experience loneliness, feel out of touch with old friends, or struggle to forge new, meaningful connections.
The Social Media Comparison Trap: Our feeds are filled with curated highlights of others’ lives–dream jobs, perfect relationships, exotic travels. This constant exposure to seemingly flawless existences can lead to feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and the belief that you’re falling behind. Studies have shown a link between heavy social media use and increased anxiety and depression.
Lack of Preparation: Many young adults feel like they haven’t been equipped with the essential “adulting basics,” from doing taxes and writing a resume to understanding insurance and managing a household. This feeling of unpreparedness can make even simple tasks feel overwhelming.
Practical Strategies for Managing Adulting Anxiety
While the challenges are real, there are concrete steps you can take to manage “adulting” anxiety and build resilience:
Embrace Imperfection and Be Realistic
No one has it all figured out, and everyone makes mistakes. Let go of the idea of a “perfect” adult life. Focus on small, achievable goals rather than overwhelming big-picture ambitions. Celebrate every small win along the way.
Confront, Don’t Avoid
While anxiety might tell you to steer clear of challenging situations, avoidance only strengthens its grip. Gradually expose yourself to the tasks or situations that make you anxious. This could mean tackling one small financial task at a time or trying a new social activity.
Master Financial Management (Even Just the Basics)
Financial stress is a huge trigger. Start by creating a simple budget. Track your spending. Even putting away a small amount into savings can create a sense of security. If debt is a concern, research repayment strategies or seek advice.
Set Healthy Boundaries
As you navigate new relationships and responsibilities, learn to say “no.” Protect your time and energy. Communicate your needs clearly and don’t overcommit yourself.
Limit Social Media Consumption
Be mindful of how social media makes you feel. If endless scrolling leaves you feeling inadequate, consider reducing your screen time or curating your feed to include more positive and inspiring content. Remember, most online portrayals are highlight reels, not reality.
Build a Strong Support System
Connect with friends, family, or mentors who genuinely support you. Talk openly about your feelings with people you trust. A strong network can provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of belonging.
Learn New Skills
Many aspects of “adulting” can be learned. Whether it’s online tutorials for cooking, budgeting apps, or workshops on resume writing, actively seeking knowledge can reduce feelings of unpreparedness.
Feeling overwhelmed by “adulting”? Young adult therapy can help you navigate the pressures, build resilience, and find your footing. Reach out today!