Surviving Early Adulthood: A Therapist's Guide to the Chaos
June 29, 2025
Written by: Lindsay Mieden, MA, LPC-S
Ah, early adulthood—the magical time when you're supposed to “figure it all out” while simultaneously forgetting to pay your electric bill and eating cereal for dinner. It’s thrilling, messy, and occasionally feels like a fever dream. As therapists, we know firsthand that this phase is wild, and we’re here to help young adults navigate the growing pains (without a side of existential dread).
Why Is Early Adulthood So Stressful?
Because it's basically life’s version of boot camp. You're expected to:
Find a career (but also not stress too much if you don’t).
Manage finances (and somehow not scream at your student loans).
Figure out who you are (without spiraling).
Maintain relationships (even when texting back feels impossible).
It’s overwhelming, but here’s the secret: nobody actually has it all together.
Therapy Hacks for Surviving the Chaos
Embrace the Mess – Early adulthood isn’t meant to be graceful. Normalize the uncertainty, laugh at the missteps, and remember that everyone is winging it.
Self-Compassion Is Key – Instead of being your own worst critic, try being your own hype person. (“Did I send that email late? Yes. But did I also remember to eat lunch today? Crushing it.”)
Mindfulness, but Make It Realistic – Meditation is great, but so is staring out the window and disassociating for five minutes when life gets overwhelming. Find your version of calm.
Boundaries, Boundaries, Boundaries – Whether it’s declining a draining social event or muting work emails after hours, setting limits is self-care, not selfish.
Celebrate the Small Wins – Paid your rent? Huge. Finished a tough day without throwing your laptop? Iconic. Life is made up of small victories—give yourself credit.
A Final Note
Early adulthood is chaotic, but it’s also full of growth, discovery, and really good snacks. As therapists, we have the privilege of reminding young adults that they’re not alone in the madness. The goal isn’t to have all the answers—it’s to find peace in the unknown.
Want support as you’re navigating through it all? Connect with us here!
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