We have all heard the term ‘Millennial Guilt’. We are a generation that has had to endure less economic and social security than our parents, with the added pressure of increased information via news and social media that can be too much to process at times.
We are so wrapped with guilt we don’t even feel comfortable taking the annual leave we have earnt. This could perhaps be contributing to a ‘perfect storm’, leading to mental health concerns getting worse. In a recent article the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) shares the powerful experiences from many different therapists on this concerning rising trend that they are seeing in their practice.
As we approach the halfway point in a calendar year it can feel like time is slipping away.
Perhaps the New Years resolutions you set are now a distant memory and you’re left wondering ‘what next?’ with a new list of things to beat yourself up about. Teamed with the feeling that life is suddenly getting serious as we approach our 30s/40s and can find ourselves comparing our lifestyle choices with friends and family.
This need to succeed at everything and to always be ‘on’ can lead to burnout. With statistics showing we are the generation most likely to experience it.
“66% of millennials say they feel “moderate” or “high” levels of burnout”
So, what can we do about it?
Personally, as a millennial and a therapist, I focus on what I can control. Finding comfort in the use of exercise and ensuring I connect with friends on a deeper level. Sharing parts of me and seeking to understand the parts of them that are beyond the ‘highlight reel’ of social media.
However, this has not always been the case, I spent much of my late teens and 20s going out probably partying too much and constantly chasing superficial relationships. Therapy really helped me to unpick what drives my behaviour, what is important to me and start to understand the life I want to build for myself. It helped me lean into my vulnerability, to create better boundaries and reflect on the pace I want to go at considering where I want to focus my time and attention.
If you are interested to know more about how therapy might be able to support you in reducing the guilt and avoiding the burnout, contact me on info@annalisebakercounselling.co.uk
The Eaves Counselling and Psychology Ltd is a select professional body of Counsellors, Psychotherapists and Psychologists, providing high quality psychological care Monday to Saturday between 9am and 9pm from our practices in Guildford, Godalming, Farnham, Haslemere and online.
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