Dealing with Quarterlife Crisis

September 15, 2011

It was generally thought to be non-existent, but according to recent psychological studies, the dreaded quarterlife crisis (QLC) has already taken its toll on the young adults (over 70% of young professionals) of this generation. Quarter-life crisis is a transitory feeling of confusion, anxiety, and depression of a person making his/her way into adulthood. The term was first coined in 1997 by Abby Wilner, co-author of Quarterlife Crisis and Quarterlifer’s Companion. Young adults who suffer from QLC feel a general sense of depression, inadequacy, insecurity, discontent, and an impression of “being stuck” in a life they hate.

Quarterlife Crisis Defined

British psychologists, headed by lead researcher Dr. Oliver Robinson from the University of Greenwich in London, reported that adults who suffer from QLC fall around the age cluster of 30 years old (25 – 35 years old), and these adults tend to start feeling the manifestations of QLC upon entering the “real world.” Furthermore, Dr. Robinson discussed that adults nowadays feel heavy pressure to be successful in the various aspects of their lives—family, finances, career, and relationships—before hitting the age of 30, and that pressure serves as a catalyst for QLC to set in.

Quarterlife Crisis: Phases

According to Dr. Oliver Robinson, individuals who are experiencing quarterlife crisis undergo four phases:

Phase 1: Characterised by a feeling of being trapped—either in a relationship or in a job

Phase 2: Involves a reconnection with one’s real sense of self—rediscovering of one’s interests and passions and considering these discoveries as possibilities for change

Phase 3: Includes activities of “starting over”

Phase 4: Finalising and living the new life

Do you find yourself in this two-year phenomenon of your adult life? Here are some pointers to get you through QLC:

Know that you are not alone. A third of young adults today suffer from the depression caused by QLC. If you feel down for not being in control of your life and “being lost,” realise that there are many more of you who feel the same way. Do not beat yourself up for being in that phase—recognise that what you are going through is normal.
Expect good things to happen. According to Dr. Robinson, QLC can usher in positive changes in your life. The depression and inactivity prevalent in this phase of your young life may very well force you to rethink and discover what you truly enjoy doing. Some of the young adults who have survived QLC have reported to be much more satisfied and excited with the newfound lives they now live. Have faith that you, too, will live a life you truly want to have.
Listen to what your passion tells you to do. Individuals in QLC often feel that their lives are without direction and meaning. Cure this by shunning all other critical voices and focusing on where your passion is leading you. Some of these critical voices may tell you that what you are about to do is preposterous, unheard of, and impractical. Ignore these comments and know that there is no other way for you to get out of the life you hate now than following what you believe will lead you to make meaning out of your worth and abilities. Be open to new possibilities, skills, people, and relationships in order for your individuality to stand out and find its niche in this world.