“Main Character Energy or Main Character Anxiety?”
So here’s the thing: everybody on TikTok is telling you to be the “main character.” Cute idea. Except somewhere between “romanticize your iced coffee” and “quit your job to travel,” young adults are quietly drowning in anxiety.
And no, it’s not just you. Roughly 42% of adults aged 18–29 report symptoms of anxiety or depression (CDC, 2023). That’s nearly half of Gen Z and young Millennials. Main character vibes? More like “supporting role in a stress documentary.”
The problem isn’t that you’re lazy, dramatic, or scrolling too much (though, yes, your screen time report is roasting you). It’s that you’re facing economic pressure, student loans, unstable housing, and the general existential dread of “what is my life even?” Research shows young adults experience high rates of financial stress that directly link to poorer mental health outcomes (American Psychological Association, 2022). Spoiler: worrying about rent while trying to “find yourself” is not the vibe.
Social media doesn’t help. Instead of celebrating your small wins, you’re comparing yourself to people who “just bought their third house at 25” or are “digital nomads in Bali.” Meanwhile, you’re Googling how much ramen is too much ramen. Studies confirm that heavy social media use contributes to anxiety and low self-esteem, especially in young adults (Twenge & Campbell, 2018).
So what do you do when “main character energy” feels more like “background noise anxiety”?
First, call out the lie. Life isn’t supposed to look like a curated feed. Nobody posts the mental breakdowns, the late bills, or the panic about turning 30. Second, build routines that make you feel steady. Research shows sleep, exercise, and consistent coping habits lower anxiety levels (Harvard Health, 2022). Revolutionary, I know: take care of your body, help your brain.
And third, get honest about support. Therapy, peer groups, or even trusted friends can buffer stress. One study found young adults with stronger social ties were less likely to spiral into clinical depression (Umberson & Montez, 2010). Translation: call your people.
Main character energy isn’t about perfect lives — it’s about showing up in your messy, real, anxious, hilarious self. You don’t need a cinematic glow-up. You need presence, perspective, and maybe a nap.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Anxiety and depression indicators.
American Psychological Association. (2022). Stress in America Survey.
Twenge, J., & Campbell, W. (2018). Associations between screen time and lower well-being among children and adolescents. Preventive Medicine Reports.
Harvard Health Publishing. (2022). Coping with anxiety: lifestyle changes that can help.
Umberson, D., & Montez, J. (2010). Social relationships and health. Journal of Health and Social Behavior.
