No matter what you do, you feel uncertain or insecure about your decisions. 

Maybe you’re struggling with FOMO, maybe you don’t know which career to pursue, or perhaps you continue to find yourself in a series of bad relationships. Meanwhile, while you continue battling these challenges, you might be wondering: why does everyone else’s life look so perfect? 

Your twenties can be undoubtedly tumultuous, and quarter-life crisis symptoms can feel both frustrating and isolating. However, you can learn to make the most of this experience - and come out feeling even stronger and happier! Here are some tips for navigating this vulnerable time.

What Happens During a Quarter-Life Crisis? 

Quarter-life crisis symptoms share many similarities with the well-known midlife crisis. This crisis often entails intense periods of questioning, uncertainty, and dissatisfaction. 

During a quarter-life crisis, you might experience the following symptoms:

• Being indecisive about crucial decisions about your future. 

• Feeling jealousy towards your peers.

• Feeling directionless about your life.

• Experiencing a lack of motivation (feeling more tired or apathetic than usual).

• Feeling split between wanting more adult responsibilities and also wanting to have fun.

It’s normal to have a few of these symptoms at some point during your twenties. But if they persist or worsen, it could indicate a deeper issue. 

Unresolved crises can lead to poor decisions and reckless behavior. They can also result in resentment, and they can also exacerbate problems with depression or anxiety. That’s why it’s crucial to pay attention to any concerning symptoms that arise. 

What Causes Quarter-Life Crises?

Even though these years can be exciting, your twenties represent a period of rapid and intense change. During this formative period, you may feel immense pressure to succeed or “be happy.” It might seem like you need to accomplish everything at once. 

Similarly, the competition to thrive may feel fierce. While maneuvering your life, you’re also watching your friends navigate their lives. And with so many people documenting every detail of their life on social media, it’s easy to fall into a vicious comparison mode. 

Some common quarter-life crisis risk factors may include: 

• Feeling uninspired or apathetic about your current job.

• Experiencing financial stressors.

• Living alone for the first time (or navigating the nuances of living with roommates).

• Making significant life decisions related to school, marriage, children, or buying a home. 

• Feeling disconnected in interpersonal relationships.

• Struggling with mental health conditions like depression or anxiety.

Are Quarter-Life Crises on the Rise With COVID-19?

This pandemic has dramatically altered how most people live their routine life. It would be an understatement to say that it hasn’t worsened quarter-life crisis symptoms.

Many young adults are struggling with decision fatigue, social isolation, financial insecurity, and general anxiety during this time. Moreover, you may have needed to pause or postpone important plans like trips, weddings, or having a baby. 

At the same time, people are spending more time engaging with social media. Research shows that the average person spends almost seven hours a day online. While social media has benefits, one of its main drawbacks is its ability to trigger intense feelings of envy, sadness, or insecurity. 

This can make it seem like you are experiencing life from a distance. You want to get moving and you're craving new experiences, new romance, a new career but the pandemic is holding you back. The good news is that life is now slowly getting back to normal and hopefully this will mean you can too. In the meantime, here are some tips on how to handle the feeling of malaise you're experiencing right now.

Coping With Your Quarter-Life Crisis Symptoms 

If you’ve identified that you’re struggling right now, it’s essential to recognize that you can take proactive steps to change your reality. 

Accept The Situation

It’s normal to feel uncertain or scared during this time. Remind yourself that it’s okay not to have all the answers today. Almost everyone has periods of doubt and uncertainty.

By accepting your situation, you won’t judge yourself as harshly. You can embrace this time for what it is: a transitional time full of life lessons, growth, and new experiences.

Pursue Passion

What makes you feel excited? What hobbies or activities have you always wanted to try? What’s that one thing on your bucket list that you’re ready to tackle?

Passion is an essential part of happiness, fulfillment, and meaning. This doesn’t mean passion needs to be the main focus of your life. It just means you should be seeking to take risks beyond your usual comfort zone.

Ground Yourself With Gratitude 

What’s going well in your life right now? Are you physically healthy? Do you have a job or apartment that you love? Have you recently adopted an adorable pet that brings you immense joy?

Gratitude can shift your whole perspective. Instead of feeling stuck in a scarcity mindset, focusing on your appreciation can move you into an abundance mentality. 

Seek Professional Support 

A quarter-life crisis isn’t just a trendy term. These experiences can severely impact your mental health and make simple tasks feel insurmountable.

At Elevate Counseling, we believe that you deserve to thrive during this new chapter in your life. We understand it may be challenging, but we are here to support you every step of the way.