If America’s latest generation of young adults is any indication, life in the United States can be pretty stressful. The latest report from the American Psychological Association states that millennials, who are between the ages of 18 and 33, appear to be undergoing more stress than other adult groups in the U.S. right now.
While the things that stress them out most are the same issues that undoubtedly caused the jitters in their elders – getting a job and starting a family – they also blamed the soaring amount of student loan debt that is at an all-time high and adds to their financial woes. The tough economy makes all of those issues worse, according to the report, Stress in America: Missing the Healthcare Connection.
“These individuals are growing up in an era of unprecedented economic upheaval. This coincides with the time they are finishing school and trying to establish themselves in society,” said Norman Anderson, chief executive officer of the APA. “When people receive professional help to manage stress and make healthy behavior changes, they do better at achieving their health goals.”
Healthcare falters
The millennials who were surveyed said there’s little support from the U.S. health system to deal with lifestyle changes that could help them get past their greatest psychological hurdles. Only 23 percent reported their doctors encourage them to make behavioral and lifestyle changes that could lower their stress and improve their overall health. More than 2,000 Americans were surveyed nationwide.
The report found that most people understand that keeping their stress in check is one way to ensure better health, but more than one-third of Americans still have difficulty handling the trials of daily life.
Anderson said having people who address stress during their health exams and other interactions with medical professionals will help lower the rates of chronic illnesses and diseases that develop as people get older. Those who are given guidance on how to reduce their stress will fare better health-wise than those who don’t.
Relieving stress and leading a healthier life can be achieved in part by paying attention to one’s diet. A balanced choice of foods and dietary supplements such as Vital B-100 from Dr. Newton’s Naturals offer both neurological and physical benefits that help relieve stress and boost cardiovascular function.