Injured Generation

Millenials could be looked at as a experiment for future generations, because it is the first generation exposed to the internet(with the good-information and bad-manipulation, porn,...), easy access to drugs,guns,... BUT more educated than previous generations( as a whole), more aware of the planet, more evolved as a whole. All these factors, of which I sure missed a lot could account for the mental health disaster we are in.

Let us begin.

The firm Bensinger, Dupont & Associates revealed in a widely cited study that millennials were reporting depression in the workplace more than any other generation—one in five( a lot if you ask me...).

The rise of social media is definitely a significant factor, by the way. Scientists have found that simply getting a "like" triggers a dopamine bump—which ultimately triggers an addiction cycle not unlike drugs.

On that note, scientists have found a linear association between social media platforms and both anxiety and depression. (The more platforms you use, the more you're at risk to experience these conditions.)

Next is early exposure and increased accessibility to drugs. For decades, parents have always remained concerned about substance abuse among teenagers in high school. However, the substance abuse trends have evolved much further than the typical “marijuana and alcohol” concerns. For instance, recent reports have shown that high school students across America have gained increased exposure to prescription drugs—such as opioids and stimulants—that can present addiction risks.

This early introduction to addictive medications poses not only a risk for future young adults, but can also indicate why many millennials are struggling with serious addictions—such as those dependent on heroin.

The Education Paradox : Academic Pressures

It is no secret that getting into college and performing well has become more intense for modern students than those in previous generations. As a result, many college students have faced extreme pressures to maintain high grades and do well so that they do not disappoint parents and are able to launch strong careers in a difficult economy. For some, this pressure to amplify academic success has led to study drug abuse—such as misuse of Adderall. The practice has become so common that even Ivy League students have noted that the use of study drugs should not be considered a form of cheating.

New Issues With Body Image

Eating disorders—such as anorexia and bulimia—are not necessarily new trends among young adults, both men and women. However, with greater exposure to media, millennials have been noted to pay greater attention to how they look. While there have been many efforts to encourage healthy living among young adults, many have found themselves striving to achieve a body image that is reflective of current cultural standards. This trend has been closely linked to the recent debates surrounding “selfie addictions.”

While self-image issues may not always be related to substance abuse, the two may often go hand-in-hand. For instance, individuals who want to lose weight or suppress appetite may use illicit substances such as cocaine and other stimulants. Even through proper detox and recovery, individuals with these body image issues may still face challenges in sobriety in their desire to achieve a look that is compliant with social standards.

Greater Mental Health Issues

One of the most interesting trends noted among millennials is the increased diagnosis of mental health issues. In 2012, SAHMSA reported, “The percentage of adults with past year serious mental illness in 2011 was highest among adults ages 18 to 25 (7.6 percent), followed by those ages 26 to 49 (6.0 percent)…”

As we have noted in previous posts, mental illness can have a strong correlation with substance abuse. Many individuals who suffer from a mental health problem may self-medicate with illicit substances, leading to addiction. Fortunately, through the growing practice of dual diagnosis therapy, individuals who face both mental health and addiction struggles can achieve a greater hope for recovery.

Individualized Treatment for Millennials Facing Addiction

Understanding that the addiction landscape is changing and that certain recovery methods may not be as effective for young adults with these unique substance abuse experiences, it is important for sufferers and their loved ones to look for flexible treatment options.

Chapters Capistrano provides a comprehensive on-site detox and inpatient rehabilitation center that allows guests to recover at their own pace through treatments that work well with their needs. If you would like to learn more about these options for addiction recovery, please call us today at 949-371-4198.