Do you remember in your 20’s when one (or both) of your parents would say, “What are you going to do with your life?” Of course at that time you had no idea what you would be doing let alone what color socks to wear that day.
Well, new discoveries in neuroscience show us that it is not uncommon for young adults to not have their life all together. The brain is still not finished maturing even as late as age 28-29. The pre-frontal cortex is one of the last regions of the brain to mature. This area controls prioritizing and controlling impulses, as well as planning and decision making. Research is just beginning to show us how different experiences in adolescence and young adulthood can impact brain development. So, the best thing to do is expose yourself to stimulating cognitive experiences, such as taking classes, playing an instrument, traveling or learning a language.
Unfortunately, this time of “emerging adulthood” can leave some people feeling very unstable and overwhelmed. This age group is particularly vulnerable to alcohol, drugs and “rock and roll.” Teens and those in their 20’s have higher rates of depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. The only other age group with an equally high rate of these disorders are people in their 80’s.
Most adults in their late 20’s find it an exciting time when they can explore different options and discover new things. The bottom line is, don’t worry and be open to new possibilities. It’s all normal. But find help if you feel really stressed out or depressed. There may be some other deeper mental health issues.
So if you feel alittle unsure in where your life is going, or if your parents are still asking what you are going to do with your life….just blame it on your brain.
Delayed Development: 20-Somethings Blame the Brain – WSJ.com: “”