“Depression can’t hit a moving target” as the algorithm says. The Filipino young adult navigates their mid 20s in maneuvering the twenty-four hours of being punctual. The urge to juggle multiple careers, hobbies and lifestyle has become more than a popular trend. It’s now a personal necessity as a preventive measure towards mental struggle.
Locked-in! To avoid a depressive state
A lot of popular slang emanates from the current generation’s deep connection with the technologitize world. If depression can’t hit a moving target, locking in is the most effective way.
More than a fleeting trend, to “lock-in” is the ability to possess an intense personal discipline and productivity.
A list of accomplishments, in hindsight, is the most efficient way to decline a mental struggle. In clinical contexts, constant physical action increases neurotransmitters like serotonin and boosts self-confidence, making it harder for depressive feelings to stay fixed.
Jack of all Trades on Societal Pressures
In juggling a nine-to-five, social life, and career, Self Check-ins are often the least priority in a to-do list. The society drives the Filipino Youth to catch on anything but a break. Most people tend to overwork and pursue a lot of accomplishments while going through internal challenges that concern their physical and mental health.
On a micro level, factors involve fulfilling personal roles in relationships such as romantic relationships and friendships.
Friday nights are for gimiks. For some, scented candles and 8PM bedtime.
Saturday is for dates and catch-up.
Sunday is for family day. And by night, you’re setting your alarm for the week.
But Gen-Z is creative enough to fit their whole life in the in betweens of the week. Here comes the coping trends that they are able to adapt in a short time.
Booking a flight on sale. Vietnam, Japan, Taiwan.
Nature trips.
Gym memberships.
Meal plans.
Strava walking.
This fluctuates the motivation to keep going. The week starts again and the debrief becomes luxury.
On what keeps us going: Stillness Vs. Survival Mode
Overcommitting on being punctual also concerns monetary stability.
Align your paycheck to secure that flight.
So you have something to look forward to after a hectic week.
Lock-in!
The Filipino youth has their specific definitions of success. While succeeding is a universal goal regardless of age and lifestyle,it’s often equated with survival due to economic instability, rising costs, and climate anxiety. Resulting young adults to obtain behavioral and social effects — not being able to relax and set boundaries when it comes to over committing and pleasing people. This may front a positive act of viewing, but in reality, some are calling for help.
How do you manage to do all that?”
Natutulog ka pa ba?”
Symptoms and signs of High-Functioning Anxiety:
- Difficulty Relaxing
- Chronic Busyness
- Micromanaging
- Perfectionism
- Avoiding Conflict or People Pleasing
- Muscle Tension
While mental and emotional effects seem ‘tolerable’ , long term consequences may actually cost more. Without intervention, high-functioning anxiety can lead to severe burn-out, anxiety disorders, or depression.
How do I help a loved one?
Start by setting a mundane task that doesn’t involve any grand movement or purchase. It may seem normal but it’s a challenge to those who are often outside their homes, constantly running to accomplish something that risks their health.
Mundanity requires confrontation. This doesn’t always involve multiple individuals with screaming or intellectualized arguments. Instead it focuses on the reconnection or self-repair.
Organization and programs that may help:
A youth-centered mental health organization “Kalinga, Unawa at Linang sa Isip at Taglay (KULIT)” The JM Canlas Organization is a non-profit organization established in honor of the late artist-athlete, Jamile Matthew Madiclum Canlas, who passed away at 17 yrs. old on August 3, 2023. Led by the Canlas family, offers creative, participatory approaches (seminars and workshops), expressive arts therapy, and sports. These programs aim to equip future generations of Filipinos with the tools and practices needed for strong mental and emotional well-being.
Spearheaded by the Canlas Family, along with its partners, supporters, and volunteer pool of mental health advocates, the KULIT Org continues to promote mental health awareness, create safe spaces, and teach care-based, trauma-informed practices — all in the hope of saving the lives of Filipino youth facing mental and emotional struggles.
KULIT Organization offers community events and support programs for youth mental health such as Kalinga, a Direct Care and Healing for Children & Youth. The program focuses on Youth-centered Psychological First Aid, Expressive arts for healing and emotional regulation, Safe spaces for recovery, dignity, and care.
Get to know KULIT.org and check on a loved one today.
Beyond the Hustle
In a culture that rewards constant productivity, many Filipino young adults have learned to survive by staying busy. But behind packed schedules and endless goals, high-functioning anxiety often hides in plain sight. Rest should not feel like guilt, and slowing down should not mean falling behind.
Sometimes, the bravest thing a person can do is pause, confront what they feel, and ask for help. Because healing begins not in constant motion, but in allowing ourselves to breathe.
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