Coaching as a Solution for Supporting Our Youth
I have been diving into the research on the anxiety epidemic among young people around the world today. In his book, The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness, Jonathan Haidt calls out smartphones and anxious parenting, among other things. And last week, I read an article in the New York Times citing a study by researchers in Britain that hypothesizes an idea called “prevalence inflation” - a notion that society has become so saturated with discussion about mental health that young people may be overidentifying with mental health issues. The study notes that students who self-label as anxious or depressed may be more likely to view themselves as powerless over these conditions. But other experts disagree and strongly defend awareness campaigns. And then there are those who point to the large existential issues facing our world, such as climate change, political upheaval, and pandemics.
It will likely take time to fully understand the causes of this concerning trend. But what can we do in the meantime? How can we support and empower young people to become healthy and competent adults, who will have the tenacity, courage, and confidence to tackle the complexities of our modern world as adults?
I suggest that integrative health and wellness coaching is an ideal solution for supporting our youth.
But what is coaching and how can it help?
Health and wellness coaching is forward leaning. It meets clients where they are and helps them make positive and lasting changes in their physical and mental health behaviors.
Coaches provide personalized support and accountability to help clients identify their values, vision, and motivations as they work to achieve their short and long term goals.
Coaches promote self-efficacy as their clients learn to trust in their ability to make positive changes and overcome obstacles, fostering greater confidence and resilience.
Coaching encourages holistic well-being: Coaches emphasize the interconnectedness of physical, spiritual, and emotional health, helping clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves and take control of their overall well-being.
How is it Different from Therapy?
As Carol Kauffman, PhD from the Institute of Coaching says “therapy tends to follow the trail of tears and coaching follows the dream.”
So, while we investigate the cause of the mental health epidemic among our young people, let’s use all the tools at our disposal to support them. Health and wellness coaching offers a proactive and empowering approach to improving physical and mental health behaviors and overall well-being. While it differs from therapy in its focus and methodology, coaching can be highly effective in addressing mental health issues by providing individuals with the tools and support they need to move forward and thrive. I believe coaching can ultimately support young people in overcoming their anxiety and following their dreams.
