Forgetfulness

The millennial generation is already known for high rates of under-employment and debt. These economic stresses appear to be taking their toll on these young people. Here is another example. A national survey found that 18-34 year olds complain of forgetfulness in daily activities more often than people over age 55.

Millennials 18-34, in fact, are significantly more likely than seniors ages 55 or older to forget what day it is (15% vs. 7%), where they put their keys (14% vs. 8%), forget to bring their lunch (9% vs. 3%) or even to take a bath or shower (6% vs. 2%).

When life becomes stressful and chaotic, our attention to detail suffers. Forgetfulness is a canary in the mental health coal mine.

We asked Patricia Gutentag a leading family and occupational therapist what may be at the root of these relatively high levels of forgetfulness in millennials. “Stress! Stress often leads to forgetfulness, depression and poor judgment.” Indeed studying for finals and preparing for job interviews, not to mention relationship issues are leading stressors in young adults. Gutentag quickly adds, “We find higher rates of ADHD diagnoses in young adults. This is a population that has grown up multitasking using technology, often compounded by lack of sleep, all of which results in high levels of forgetfulness.”

As followers of Christ, we have a responsibility to lift their burdens and increase their opportunities. If we turn a blind eye and a deaf ear to their struggles, more will sink into despair and turn away from faith. We cannot claim ignorance. Most of us have close relatives in this age group and know their struggles first hand. The question is whether we have the courage to challenge economic injustices that are growing more common in our nation.