Stressed-Induced Depression: Overcoming Millennial Mental Health Issues
Welcome to part two of our series on the top mental health challenges facing millennials in 2025. I’m Scott Treas, founder of LifeSketch Counseling and Coaching, and today we’re diving into the depths of stress-induced depression. In our last discussion, we explored burnout and the keys to overcoming it. Now, we’re tackling an issue that is even more pervasive—depression—and why it has become a defining challenge for millennials.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recently named depression the leading cause of disability worldwide. This reflects not only its prevalence but also its profound impact on individuals and communities. For millennials, this challenge is compounded by unique generational stressors and cultural shifts that make it harder than ever to cope.
Why Depression Is So Challenging
As a clinician, I can tell you that treating depression is often one of the most difficult tasks. Depression isn’t just about feeling sad; it’s a condition that fundamentally alters how people experience life. Tasks that should be simple—like getting out of bed, exercising, or reaching out to friends—can feel monumental. Depression creates a vicious cycle, sapping the motivation needed to engage in the very behaviors that could alleviate it.
What’s even more insidious is how depression lingers. It’s not just a bad day or week; it can stretch on for months or even years. This prolonged suffering often leaves people feeling trapped, frustrated, and helpless. Family and friends may find it equally exasperating, resorting to well-meaning but often unhelpful advice like, “Just be positive.” But depression isn’t a lack of knowledge; it’s a lack of capacity.
Perhaps most concerning is depression’s association with suicidal ideation. For many, the thought that all their pain could end with one decision becomes a constant, invasive companion. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please call 988 or visit the nearest emergency room. Help is available, and you don’t have to face this alone.
Understanding Depression: Types and Causes
Let’s start with a quick overview of depressive disorders, as defined by the DSM-5:
Types of Depression (from the DSM-5):
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Persistent low mood and loss of interest lasting at least two weeks, with five or more specific symptoms.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): Long-term, chronic low mood.
Other Types: Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), Perinatal Depression, and Depression Related to Substance Use or Medical Conditions.
We’ll focus on Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), characterized by:
Depressed mood
Loss of interest/pleasure
Changes in weight or appetite
Sleep disturbances (insomnia or hypersomnia)
Fatigue or low energy
Guilt, shame, or feelings of worthlessness
Difficulty concentrating (brain fog)
Sucidal ideation
To be diagnosed with MDD, at least five of these symptoms must be present for two weeks or more.
The Myth of the "Chemical Imbalance"
For decades, depression has been popularly understood as a "chemical imbalance" in the brain, particularly involving serotonin. This theory has been heavily promoted by the pharmaceutical industry to support the use of antidepressants. While it’s true that neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine play a role in mood regulation, the idea of a simple chemical imbalance is overly reductive and lacks definitive scientific proof.
Antidepressants, particularly SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors), are often effective—but they’re not a silver bullet. A 2018 study comparing 21 antidepressants found them more effective than a placebo, but the degree of effectiveness varies widely among individuals. Side effects, including gastrointestinal issues, weight changes, and even increased suicidal ideation in some cases, further complicate their use.
Recent research has shifted toward a more holistic view of depression, examining factors like inflammation, gut health, genetics, stress hormones, and lifestyle. This "bio-psycho-social" model provides a more comprehensive framework for understanding and treating depression.
The Bio-Psycho-Social Model
A more accurate and comprehensive model is the biopsychosocial model. This approach recognizes the interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to depression.
Biological Factors
Neurotransmitter Imbalance: While not the sole cause, neurotransmitters do influence mood.
Genetic Predisposition: A family history of depression can increase vulnerability.
Gut Microbiome: The balance of bacteria in the gut has been linked to mood regulation.
Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is associated with depressive symptoms.
Psychological Factors
Negative Thinking: Distorted beliefs and pessimism exacerbate depression.
Personality Traits: High emotional sensitivity or rejection sensitivity can heighten risk.
Trauma: Adverse life events often serve as triggers.
Social/Environmental Factors
Isolation and Loneliness: A lack of social support is a significant risk factor.
Cultural Pressures: Unrealistic societal expectations and social media comparisons fuel feelings of inadequacy.
Early Childhood Experiences: Attachment styles and upbringing play a foundational role.
Imagine your mental health as a glass. The "ice cubes" represent your bio-psycho-social predispositions, like genetics or past trauma. Stress is the liquid poured into the glass. When the glass overflows, depression manifests. Managing depression means addressing not just the stressors but also the underlying factors that fill the glass.
Why Millennials Are Struggling More Than Ever
Depression rates among millennials have risen by 47% since 2013. Unlike previous generations, millennials have not seen a decline in depression as they age. Here are some of the unique stressors fueling this crisis:
Economic Stressors
Millennials face unprecedented financial challenges. They are the first generation in American history to be less financially secure than their parents at the same age. Stagnant wages, student loan debt, and skyrocketing housing costs contribute to chronic stress and hopelessness.
Addictive Technologies
Social media exacerbates the comparison trap, fostering feelings of inadequacy. Beyond content, the devices themselves disrupt sleep, shorten attention spans, and keep us in a constant state of fight-or-flight with endless notifications and scrolling.
Social Isolation
Loneliness has become a defining feature of millennial life. Despite being more "connected" than ever, millennials report feeling increasingly isolated. The decline of community institutions and a culture that prioritizes individualism over collective well-being have left many without a support system.
A Strategic Plan for Managing Depression
To combat stress-induced depression, we need a multifaceted approach:
Biological Strategies
Exercise: Regular physical activity can boost mood by releasing endorphins and reducing inflammation.
Sleep Hygiene: Establish a consistent sleep schedule and limit screen time before bed.
Nutrition: A balanced diet supports gut health and overall well-being.
Medication: Work closely with a provider to explore options and monitor side effects.
Psychological Strategies
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This evidence-based approach helps reframe negative thought patterns.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices that focus on the present moment can reduce rumination.
Set Small Goals: Break tasks into manageable steps to combat feelings of overwhelm.
Social Strategies
Build Connections: Strengthen relationships with family and friends or join support groups.
Limit Social Media: Set boundaries to reduce comparison and negativity.
Seek Professional Help: Therapy provides a safe space to explore and address underlying issues.
Moving Forward
Depression is a complex and multifaceted condition, but it is treatable. Understanding the bio-psycho-social model can help us move beyond the oversimplified "chemical imbalance" narrative and embrace a more holistic approach to mental health.
Millennials face unique challenges that have made them particularly vulnerable to stress-induced depression. By addressing economic pressures, technological addiction, and social isolation, we can begin to turn the tide. Remember, you are not alone in this struggle, and help is available. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out to a trusted professional or call 988 for immediate support.
Together, we can navigate the challenges of depression and create a path toward healing and resilience.
Preview of Part Three: Social Anxiety and Loneliness
In part three of the series on top millennial mental health issues, we’ll dive into two deeply interconnected struggles: social anxiety and loneliness. Millennials face unique pressures that amplify these challenges, from navigating the hyperconnected world of social media to overcoming the stigma of mental health struggles.
What We’ll Explore:
Social Anxiety Unveiled: We’ll break down what social anxiety looks like in the millennial age—fear of judgment, avoidance of social situations, and the pressure of maintaining a perfect online persona.
The Loneliness Epidemic: Despite being the most digitally connected generation, millennials report feeling more isolated than ever. We'll examine how this paradox emerged and its impact on emotional well-being.
The Link Between the Two: Social anxiety often fuels loneliness, and loneliness can exacerbate social anxiety, creating a vicious cycle.
Solutions and Steps Forward: From cognitive-behavioral techniques to building meaningful connections, we’ll outline actionable strategies to address these pervasive issues.
In this part, you'll not only gain a deeper understanding of these mental health concerns but also discover practical tools to rebuild confidence and foster authentic relationships. Stay tuned!