The Rising Tide of Stress and Mental Health Issues Among Young Employees
The Alarming Trend of Long-Term Absences
In recent years, a stark trend has emerged: an unprecedented number of young employees are taking extended periods of sick leave. According to neuropsychologist Michaël Portzky, this phenomenon is deeply rooted in the way our brains handle stress. "Our survival system was never intended to work twenty-four hours a day," Portzky explains, highlighting the evolutionary mismatch between our ancient stress response mechanisms and modern stressors.
The Data Speaks Volumes
A recent analysis reveals that the number of young employees under 45 taking long-term sick leave has surged by a staggering 130%. In contrast, the increase among older employees is a mere 17%. This shift is particularly alarming given that, historically, long-term absences were more common among older workers.
The Mental Health Crisis Among Youth
The data from Portzky’s 2017 survey among thousands of young people in secondary schools is nothing short of horrifying. One in five had experienced self-harm, and among those who had received psychological or psychiatric help, the figure was even higher at 50%. Most alarmingly, 4.8% of the respondents had considered a suicide plan. During the lockdowns, the Youth Farm test on the Noknoka website, where young people can work on their mental well-being, recorded that 17% of the 10,000 participants triggered the built-in suicide alarm.
Did you know? The shock of these figures was so great that officials initially hesitated to share them, fearing they could be used to criticize a failing mental health policy.
Why Are We So Stressed Today?
Portzky explains that our stress response system is designed to handle immediate threats to survival. However, in today’s world, our brains are constantly triggered by non-life-threatening stressors like overcrowded inboxes, financial pressures, and traffic jams. This constant state of heightened alertness can lead to chronic stress and a host of related health issues.
The Unique Challenges Facing Young People
Young people today face a unique set of challenges. From an early age, they are subjected to high expectations and stress, often feeling the pressure to perform and meet societal norms. The use of smartphones and the blue light they emit further disrupts their sleep patterns, leading to chronic fatigue and reliance on energy drinks and coffee to stay alert.
Pro Tip: Encourage young people to establish a bedtime routine that avoids screens at least an hour before sleep. This can help regulate their sleep-wake cycle and improve overall mental health.
The Role of Social Isolation
Portzky points out that the younger generations are not inherently less resilient. Instead, societal changes have led to a sense of emotional loneliness, where individuals feel disconnected despite being surrounded by people. This lack of meaningful connections can have severe mental health consequences.
Are Some People More at Risk?
According to Portzky, everyone is at risk of burnout, but those who push themselves to the limit are particularly vulnerable. These individuals often ignore warning signs and resort to medication or substances to cope, leading to a harder crash when they finally reach their breaking point.
Balancing Stress and Relaxation
To combat stress, Portzky advises thinking in terms of balance. One bowl contains stressors, while the other contains relaxing activities. The key is to keep both bowls in balance. For some, passive activities like yoga or meditation are effective, while others may need more active and social pursuits to relax.
Table: Key Points on Stress and Mental Health
| Aspect | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Stress Response | Evolutionarily designed for immediate threats, not constant daily stressors. |
| Young People’s Risks | High expectations, screen time, and emotional loneliness. |
| Stress Management | Balance stressors with relaxing activities. |
| Warning Signs | Ignoring signals can lead to a harder crash. |
| Resilience | Social connections and a sense of belonging are crucial. |
FAQ Section
Q: How can I tell if I’m at risk of burnout?
A: If you find yourself constantly stressed, ignoring warning signs, and relying on substances to cope, you may be at risk.
Q: What are some effective stress-relief activities?
A: Effective activities vary by person. Some find relief in passive activities like yoga or meditation, while others need more active and social pursuits.
Q: How can I support a young person struggling with stress?
A: Encourage them to seek professional help, engage in relaxing activities, and foster a sense of belonging and connection.
The Future of Mental Health
As we look ahead, it’s clear that addressing the mental health crisis among young people will require a multifaceted approach. This includes fostering a sense of belonging, promoting healthy stress management practices, and ensuring that mental health resources are readily available.
Call to Action
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Resources like the suicide line (1813) and websites like www.zelfmoord1813.be are available to provide support and guidance. Share your experiences and insights in the comments below, and let’s work together to create a healthier, more resilient future.