GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — Why is the rate rising is not completely clear, however many factors have been identified such as lack of a supportive community, financial and work stress, pressure to be always connected and more. Millennials may also report at a higher level than past generations at the same age because mental health screenings are more available than in the past and Millennial's are more educated about mental health.
The good news is that individuals can do much to protect and strengthen their mental health.
- Stop trying to be perfect or a superman/woman.
- Focus on better self-care (healthy diet, exercise, etc.) which can reduce effects of stress.
- Find a community to belong to such as a local philanthropic group with similar interests as you, church, volunteer organization, fitness or hobby group, etc.
- Look into debt consolidation and or financial planning programs to reduce financial stress.
If your symptoms are interfering with your ability to function or enjoy life, be sure to seek treatment from a qualified professional such as your primary care physician or a mental health therapist.
Visit the Pine Rest website for more stress reduction ideas.
What Millennials are most stressed about:
- Money
- Work
- Family responsibilities
- Health-related concerns
- Relationships
- Housing costs
- The economy
- Job stability
- Personal safety
- Discrimination
According to BCBS, depression has the most adverse impact on overall health than any other condition including hypertension, substance use disorder, high cholesterol, diabetes and tobacco use.
Depression rate in Michigan is 4.6%, for Millennial's in Michigan is 4.9%, for West Michigan (GR-Muskegon-Holland) Millennial's is 5.5%, according to the BCBS Health of America study. Twenty-two percent of Millennial's nationwide report having any mental illness in the past year, but less than half received treatment, the NIHM says.
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