You know things are sad if you look up Millennial problems online and you are greeted with search results for lists of problems. No, not Wikipedia lists, but top 10 lists of the most common challenges that a generation is facing. Yeah, yeah, I know, it’s how the search algorithm works, supply and demand of media today, bla bla bla. But you see what the brevity of the situation is, right?

It goes without saying that times are tough for Millennials and, really, nobody and nothing is making it any better.

Those who pursued further education at college—over 35%—likely ended up with student debt that weighs on them more than the burden of knowledge. The average student loan for one person is just a couple of hundred dollars shy of $33,000.

Well, student loans aren’t all that big of a deal if you have a job, right? Yes. If you have one, that is.

While nobody is safe from being unemployed, the pandemic made sure it is a lot worse, all the while wages in many places linger at a level that hasn’t changed in 14 years now and the job environment is less than desirable in many places.

Speaking of the former, 63% of Millennials would have a hard time paying $500 in unexpected costs, and that’s even when they would likely be working two jobs.

And, the latter, 1 in 5 Millennials have changed jobs in recent years because they just can’t see themselves there if their career comes to a halt and the boss shows little to no care for them.

Oh, it doesn’t stop there. The housing market, remember? A popular topic these days, but one that can’t be overstated.

Back in 1940, the median home value in the US was nearly $3,000. 40 years later, it was a bit over $47,000 and by 2000, it skyrocketed to nearly $120,000. Adjusted for inflation, the 1940s home was roughly $30,000 compared to the 120K version in 2000. And it kept on growing since then.

It doesn’t help that the sociopolitical climate that folks live in these days equates to living in the shadow of a person who not only doesn’t get it, but also seems to refuse to get it. And as much as you try to move out of the cold, cold shade, the shadow just keeps on moving with you, like that incessant cloud from that one Super Mario game. And we can’t seem to find that invincibility star anywhere.

And so it piles up, causing a slew of mental health concerns. So much, in fact, that 20% of Millennials report depression related to their jobs.

However, not all is lost. Millennials have a great sense of humor, as is evident from this listicle, but also because therapy exists. Sure, it costs a bit, but once you figure that stuff out, everything else gets exponentially easier.

It’s all about seeking therapy on time, practicing self-care and building a support network to get you through the darker times.

While easier said than done, self-care is something that can be taken one step at a time and without getting too much in the way of the hustle of life.

Remember, regular exercise (taking that mental walk during lunch), eating healthy (healthier), and making sleep a priority can go a long way.

Once that is out of the way, start prioritizing relaxing activities, set goals, and focus on the positive aspects in life by practicing gratitude, staying connected with folks or maybe playing some Stardew Valley. The game does wonders.

So, Millennial or not, what are your thoughts on any of this? Share your thoughts and commentary in the comment section below!

And if you want more, why not check out another listicle of ours from last year that provides more Millennial Christmas content.