Why have young people become more vulnerable?

In recent years, the mental health of young people has become a frequent topic of discussion. Uncertainty about the future, comparisons with others' lives on social media, parental expectations, and the challenges of achieving financial independence can place an additional psychological burden on young people. But what are the most common psychological issues among them, what causes these problems, and when is it necessary to seek professional help?

According to psychologist Anahit Haykazuni, the most common psychological issues among young people include anxiety-related problems, stress-related disorders, and depressive symptoms, with anxiety issues being the most prevalent.

"Young people today face various challenges." "They sometimes struggle to cope with stress stemming from uncertainty about the future and the pressure to meet the expectations of the previous generation. The influence of social media also plays a significant role here, as young people often compare their lives to those of others, which can lead to dissatisfaction with themselves," psychologist Anahit Haykazuni noted in an interview with MediaHub.

According to the specialist, observing the successes and achievements of others on social media can trigger self-dissatisfaction among young people. Furthermore, family, school, and the environment in which a child grows up have a major impact on their psychological development.

Parents also play a crucial role in the psychological stability of young people. Expectations to excel academically, achieve success, and become a well-adjusted adult in the future can create additional pressure, especially when a young person is trying to meet the demands of both family and society simultaneously.

According to a psychologist, parental emotional support remains crucial even as the child grows into a young adult; however, excessive involvement can hinder the development of independence.

"Independence needs to be fostered from an early age. At every stage of development, a child should have the opportunity to experiment, make mistakes, and make independent decisions. Parents often provide their children with certain opportunities, yet at the same time, they do a great deal on their behalf." "Later on, when greater responsibility is required, a young person may struggle to solve problems independently, simply because they lack prior experience in doing so," the specialist said.

Overcoming psychological issues depends not only on the family but also on the educational environment. Children grow up not just within the family but also in schools, kindergartens, and other social settings where their emotional and communication skills are shaped.

The psychologist believes it is crucial for children to learn to recognize their emotions from an early age, understand when they are experiencing anxiety, and be able to seek help when necessary.

"Today, awareness regarding mental health is higher than in the past. However, simply knowing what anxiety or depression is, is not enough." "It is also important to understand what to do with these feelings and how to overcome them. Schools can play a major role in this regard by helping children and young people understand whom they can turn to when facing difficulties," the psychologist noted.

According to the specialist, anxiety is a natural emotion; however, it becomes a problem when it begins to negatively affect a person's quality of life, productivity, educational activities, and daily routine.

Alongside raising awareness about mental health issues, it is also important to understand when professional help is needed. If anxiety is difficult to manage and interferes with normal life, it is essential to pay attention to the situation and, if necessary, consult a specialist. According to the psychologist, there are also instances today where young people themselves ask their parents to access psychological services. This highlights the importance of recognizing the need for professional support.

To safeguard the mental health of young people, it is crucial to create an environment where they can freely express their emotions, discuss their challenges, and seek help when needed—without shame or the fear of judgment.

Alita Yeghiazaryan