The Young Adult Mental Health Crisis in America

Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall wellness that plays a significant role in determining the quality of life for individuals. Unfortunately, many young adults in America are struggling with mental health issues that are compromising their ability to lead productive and fulfilling lives. The following is a discussion of the young adult mental health crisis in America, its causes, and what can be done to address this growing problem.

Reasons for the Crisis

There are many factors that are contributing to the young adult mental health crisis in America, including:

1. Increased stress and anxiety: Young adults today face numerous stressors, including the pressure to succeed academically, professionally, and financially. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, worry, and stress that can negatively impact their mental health.
2. Social media and technology: The rise of social media and technology has brought with it an unprecedented level of connectivity and exposure to the world, which can be overwhelming and contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness.
3. Substance abuse: Substance abuse and addiction are also contributing to the young adult mental health crisis, as many young adults turn to drugs and alcohol as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
4. Lack of access to mental health services: Many young adults struggle to access mental health services due to a lack of insurance, stigma, and limited access to quality care.

Impact on Young Adults

The young adult mental health crisis has far-reaching consequences for individuals and society as a whole. The following are some of the ways that mental health issues can impact young adults:

1. Interference with academic and professional success: Mental health issues can interfere with a young adult’s ability to focus and succeed in their academic or professional pursuits.
2. Increased risk of substance abuse: Young adults with mental health issues are at a higher risk of substance abuse and addiction, which can further exacerbate their mental health problems.
3. Decreased quality of life: Mental health issues can significantly decrease a young adult’s quality of life, leading to feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and loneliness.
4. Increased risk of suicide: Mental health issues can increase the risk of suicide, which is a growing problem among young adults in America.

What Can be Done to Address the Crisis

The following are some of the steps that can be taken to address the young adult mental health crisis in America:

1. Increase access to mental health services: The first step in addressing the young adult mental health crisis is to increase access to mental health services. This can be done by expanding insurance coverage, increasing the availability of mental health services, and reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues.
2. Promote mental health literacy: Increasing mental health literacy, or the knowledge and understanding of mental health issues, can help young adults recognize and address mental health problems early on.
3. Address the root causes of mental health issues: Addressing the root causes of mental health issues, such as stress, anxiety, and substance abuse, is crucial in preventing and treating mental health problems in young adults.
4. Increase support for young adults: Young adults need support and resources to help them navigate the challenges of adulthood and maintain their mental health. This can be done by providing access to resources such as counseling, support groups, and educational materials.

The young adult mental health crisis in America is a growing problem that requires immediate attention and action. By increasing access to mental health services, promoting mental health literacy, addressing the root causes of mental health issues, and increasing support for young adults, we can help ensure that all young adults have the opportunity

Therapeutic surfing is one tool in the tool box that can help young adults struggling with substance abuse and/or mental health issues. Of course it is not a replacement for SUD/ mental health treatment, medical care, psychiatric care, or licensed psychotherapy. Serene Waters recommends and supports all aspects of recovery and encourages the infusion of surf therapy into each persons recovery journey. If you need treatment or other professional referrals we are happy to help. We provide group surf therapy services at a few SUD/ Mental health treatment programs in Southern California. If you would like to learn more or sign up for private therapeutic surf lessons please check out our home page. We are located in Orange County, California and the Central Coast of California (SLO region).