A (brave) new world

Every generation is faced with it's own new challenges particularly when faced with a rapidly available and changing world through technology and social media. 

Todays young people are having to deal with a world only known through social media which can be fast and intense and presents conflicting opinions and ideas about identity, morals and values. They are also faced with an unsettled political and environmental future, and not to forget a global pandemic.

Adults are having to adapt to new technolgy and a generally faster paced life. This can offer new opportunities never dreamt of before such as having a choice in new careers and jobs, travelling the world, being a more authetic self in a more accepting society around sexuality, gender and race. But increased choice can bring increased anxiety, and a more open and global means of communication can create increased vulnerability.

Adults may not have had to face and deal with new social issues and structures such as family breakdowns, redundancy, national financial instability, new technologies and more recently a global pandemic.

As an adult we think we should have it all sorted, we should know how to deal with our problems. But what we have done is find ways to cope with problems within a society we were brought up in, which until now may have worked well. Some solutions may work short-term but in the long term may not be effective in coping with the ever changing world around us. 

So, as adults, it is ok to ask for help in order to adjust to these changes. It is also now much more acceptable to say that we are not coping and to seek help. In fact, it is encouraged more and more, regardless of stigma. We no longer have to have a ‘Stiff upper lip’, even though we are masters at it.

Mental health is becoming openly encouraged to be talked about because there is an epidemic of depression, anxiety and suicide particularly amongst young people and men. This in itself is creating new issues when faced with a struggling NHS system where the only way to get help is to be in crisis. 

Getting on top of emotional difficulties is crucial in preventing anybody reaching crisis point.