In the United States, a young specialist is someone in their 20s and 30s. They generally are beginning their careers and are utilized in a white-collar occupation. In the US labor force, over 56,000,000 individuals contribute to this market. As they pursue promos as well as general acknowledgment for their initiatives, they encounter numerous hurdles– like a susceptability to addiction.
Young Professionals And Addiction
When contrasted to other white-collar workers, young professionals run a much higher risk of developing a material usage condition (SUD). There are numerous significant factors to this phenomena, like young experts’ age group and also health and wellness, however there is nobody clear response regarding why this is so. Below are a few possible reasons why numerous young experts remain in threat of creating an SUD.
Age Group
In 2021, the young professional demographic predominantly consisted of millennials and some members of Gen Z. Unfortunately, millennials are more likely to develop an SUD than members of Gen X or baby boomers. In the past decade, addiction rates among 25 to 40-year-olds have soared. From 2006 to 2015, drug-related deaths in this generation rose by 108%.
Though Gen Z comprises only a small percentage of the young professional workforce, they have a high risk of addiction. Zoomers have many mental health concerns to deal with. Research has discovered the generation is clinically depressed, social media-crazed, and unbelievably stressed.
Social Media
Young professionals are among the leading users of social networks. Over 80% of adults between the ages of 22 and 40 use a social platform daily. Whether they’re using LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook, many are relying on these sites to share their ideas, network, and find new jobs. Though social media has positive attributes, it also has plenty of negative ones.
The damaging mental and physical effects of social media are no secret. The more individuals use social networking platforms, the more likely they are to experience psychological and physical disorders like addiction. According to a Harvard University study, sharing personal information like promotions, thoughts, or experiences on social platforms triggers a portion of the brain associated with addiction. Several other studies have also found a connection between anxiety, addiction, and social media. Social media is also proven to expose users to high rates of stimuli that encourage drug use.
Unaffordable Health Care
Blue Cross Blue Shield data predict millennials and zoomers will be some of the unhealthiest generations ever. According to the research, over 30% of the members of both age groups have health conditions that increase their mortality rate by 40%. Unfortunately, a lack of financial security and a saturated job market can make it harder for young professionals to secure health insurance. The lack of treatment and help from medical professionals for these young adults is expected to expand health care costs by more than 33%. In turn, this reduces their chances of receiving treatment for disorders like addiction.
The Future Of Young Professionals And The Rise In Addiction
Given that young professionals are battling financial insecurity, a saturated job market, and unaffordable health care, it is no surprise that they are also struggling with addiction. The lack of support, high levels of pressure, and intense competition among this demographic are making young professionals prone to alcohol and drug abuse. Still, not all hope is lost. There is help available for anyone battling alcohol or drug addiction.
If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction, reach out for help. Contact a treatment provider today to discuss available treatment and rehab options.
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