Stress Management for Millennials: Dreams Which Inspire to Personal Philosophy

It is widely known that today's life is fast, and it does not favor security as much as it used to during the day of our parents. Also, many millennials find themselves negotiating through the ever-challenging economic environment and lack of job security due to the negative effects of technological advancements. Identification of stress sources and learning effective measures to manage the same is just as crucial in the upkeep of mental and physical health. 

Understanding Millennial Stress

The generation of millennials is in a different world than the previous generations. They are continuously fluctuating social conditions, the emergence of crises, as well as market fluctuations that are likely to become the supporting line of their lives. The financial crisis of 2008, student loans, and increasing costs of living all affected the sense of financial stability. People reading the positions of their friends on social platforms such as Instagram and Facebook get in touch with many things and also encounter comparisons with friends that make them feel overwhelmed and anxious. Work-life balance is another big factor making life harder for millennials. The challenge for millennials is that they shoulder the responsibility of not only heavy jobs but also side hustles and personal commitments. The line separating work and personal life appears to be disappearing too, and thus, working almost everywhere has become one of their lifestyles. Such inducements make it very difficult to even find time to laugh. 

Effective Stress Management Strategies

Self-Care First, is more than a catchy phrase; it is essential to manage stress. Often, with the mentality that putting work and responsibility into personal health is the best way to go, millennials end up on the opposite spectrum of the longevity and wellbeing scale. Time, in general, is important for self-care, but time is just for me? Exercising regularly, keeping a healthy diet, and having the proper amount of rest can all be helpful in preventing stress in many individuals. Hobbies, interests, meditation, or reading complement relaxation jest are effective ways to reduce stress. Set Effective Goals, sometimes the most valuable goals are those that are the most realistic to realize. Due to most millennials setting very high expectations for themselves, these may include both career growth and the overall significance of the individual. When it comes to an important event success, it is preferable to step away from the general talk and come up with very specific goals, which you can achieve, thus preventing stress. Breaking down larger tasks into these small steps can help you look at the entire situation less heavily and can feel more easily that they can be done. Learn to say "no", in the pressure of "going the distance" that sometimes bombard the society, saying no is a priceless weapon. One should know their limits and be able to say "no". Because if someone is not comfortable with a certain thing but they force themselves to do it, the way to go might be burnout. You should also be improved in the vital communication with others. Being proactive toward your health, and setting some defined rules, can also lead to living a healthy life. Seeking help is a sign of bravery, not weakness, and there is no harm in reaching out and asking for help. Millennials may be quite open about their mental health, but they are also scared to be judged or discriminated against for sharing their mental health issues due to the fear of stigmatization. Visiting a therapist and a counselor is an important way of managing pressures and other obstacles that increase the burden. Presently, a wide range of doctors preach virtual therapy, which is more than just a means of support of your home. Practice Mindfulness and meditation, or in another way that resonates with you. Mindfulness and meditation have been discovered in a study to be effective in reducing the influence of stress. They foster the sense of presence and concentration, encouraging the wellbeing that is the very opposite to depression. Tools such as Headspace and Calm offer apps which include courses on meditation and mindfulness to be a part of routine life. Just a short time every day can bring about a new view. Encouraging social support, a close friend, or the family is crucial. These take-home messages will be like invaluable treasures they will carry out to the real world. Being in a relationship can offer you the mental and practical support you need during testing times. By making a network of affectionate associations, these relationships are considered as the basis that will help cultivate good-will and reciprocity. Independence, the capacity to stretch further and make compromises, is the ultimate key to deal with stress. The reality of today's generation is the fundamental discovery and expansion of new business and social structures. There is no beating around the bush about handling such circumstances by acknowledging the change and appreciating new heights. Cultivating a healthier approach to form a mental space can significantly influence people's ability to get through challenging situations. Limit Digital Use. While digital detoxing will have its place in stress management, its necessity is ignored. If looking at the screen or social media temporarily relaxes people taking part, it can temporarily increase the level of stress. One effective way to minimize the negative effects of screen addiction is to define time frames around the use of devices. The overwhelming flood of information and lack of rest can be beneficial not only for mental health, but also physical health. 

In conclusion, millennials' stress besides usual stress is attributed to daily challenges and their unrealistic expectations. To balance harsh life experiences, to set realistic objectives, to let your subconscious work for and with you, to solicit help or ask for it, study mindfulness, build a supportive community, engage in the process of becoming flexible, and know emotions. Consuming yourself with ideas on stress management or failing to handle yourself correctly in the presence of excess stress possibly put you down physically and mentally. However, the right ways can still govern the situation and better your health in general.

Dr. Deergha Sharma

Associate Professor

Department of Management & Commerce
The Northcap University