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Why are we feeling pressured?

Modern society puts a lot of pressure on young people to do well in school, find stable jobs, and gain independence quickly. The expectation to “have it all” by a certain age leads to unrealistic timelines. For instance, the idea that graduates should land high-paying jobs right away or that young adults should buy homes before turning 30 often overlooks the economic realities. According to the OECD, young people today experience more job insecurity than past generations, which increases stress when they don’t meet these societal milestones.

Disclaimer – The author of this article, as a recent graduate, is also part of this system and has perceived its negative effects on his own health.

What’s the cause of the pressure?

One of the main reasons young people today experience societal pressure can be traced to social media and the phenomenon it amplifies — FOMO.

FOMO, or the fear of missing out, has become a key part of youth culture today. Social media platforms constantly showcase vacations, career achievements, and lifestyle highlights from friends, influencers, or the general public. This creates the feeling that everyone else is more successful or having more fun, which can drive young people to overwork or make hasty decisions just to keep up. A study by authors Przybylski and his colleagues showed that high levels of FOMO have been linked to lower life satisfaction and more stress. Furthermore, FOMO doesn’t just affect leisure activities; it can also impact career choices, educational paths, and personal relationships in a negative way. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), Generation Z reports the highest stress levels among age groups. Financial pressure and social comparison can be cited as major sources of this stress. When success is defined by speed and constant achievement, young people may overlook rest, relationships, and personal growth.

How to not fall victim to the pressure?

Addressing these challenges needs both personal and systemic efforts. Individually, setting realistic goals, setting digital boundaries, being mindful, and viewing success as a long-term journey can help reduce pressure. Building supportive networks, finding mentors, and normalizing seeking help are also key strategies. On a societal level, it is important to create environments that recognize economic realities and lower unrealistic expectations. By combining personal coping methods with systemic support, young people can better handle the pressures of modern life and maintain their mental well-being.

Conclusion: you have time

The pressure on young people today is real, and it is unlikely to go away anytime soon. That’s why it is important to live your own life and pursue realistic personal goals. Recognizing that success doesn’t have to come right away and that everyone’s journey is different can greatly lessen stress and improve well-being. Take actor Samuel L. Jackson or singer Susan Boyle as perfect examples. Their careers didn’t take off until they were in their 40s, proving that there is plenty of time to succeed. With that in mind, encouraging healthier views both personally and socially, we can create a culture where young people feel supported instead of overwhelmed.

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