We make countless decisions daily, from breakfast to what to wear. While these choices may seem trivial, the process behind decision-making has a significant impact on our mental health. Understanding how we make decisions can offer insights into our emotional well-being and help identify strategies that support healthier mental states.
For the past eight years, I’ve focused on researching how young people, particularly those between the ages of 15 and 25, make decisions that affect their mental health. Given that mental health is a critical issue affecting youth worldwide, it’s essential to examine whether the way they make choices contributes to anxiety and depression.
In a recent study of young adults in South Africa, I explored how different decision-making styles influence mental health. The study revealed that vigilant decision-making—where individuals carefully evaluate all options before making a choice—was associated with lower levels of anxiety and depression. On the other hand, rushed decisions or delayed decision-making were linked to higher levels of anxiety and depression.
This insight is crucial, especially considering that a substantial portion of the study group, 37.3%, were at risk of developing major depressive disorder, and an even more significant percentage, 74.2%, were at risk for anxiety disorder. The study suggests that a large portion of young people making hasty or delayed decisions might be more vulnerable to mental health challenges.
Stress and Decision-Making in Emerging Adults
The study involved 1,411 young South Africans, aged between 18 and 29, a developmental stage referred to as “emerging adulthood.” This period is marked by heightened stress, as young adults face major life choices—such as career paths or adopting adult responsibilities—amid societal pressures and expectations.
Many mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression, often emerge during these years. By the age of 25, up to 75% of mental health disorders have already manifested.
A critical factor in how decisions are made is time. When time allows for a thorough, thoughtful approach, the likelihood of experiencing anxiety is reduced. Take, for example, a young adult deciding on contraceptive options. If they have ample time to research and evaluate their choices, they are more likely to reach a decision that feels right, free from the burden of stress. Conversely, decisions made under pressure—such as choosing a university degree with an impending deadline—can increase feelings of anxiety and uncertainty, contributing to depressive symptoms.
By utilizing advanced statistical analysis, my study predicted which decision-making styles were most strongly correlated with anxiety and depression. The findings offer a framework for understanding how young people’s decision-making impacts their mental health, paving the way for targeted mental health interventions.
Improving Decision-Making for Better Mental Health
Given that time plays a pivotal role in decision-making, adopting a vigilant approach can lead to better outcomes. Here are five practical steps that mirror the vigilant decision-making style:
- Clearly identify the problem or situation at hand.
- Brainstorm all possible solutions or options.
- Research the pros and cons of each option.
- Select the solution that offers the best potential outcome based on your needs.
- If you remain uncertain, consult a trusted individual with relevant experience.
These steps encourage a thorough evaluation process, reducing the likelihood of rushed or delayed decisions that contribute to anxiety and depression.
The Road Ahead: Supporting Youth Mental Health
There remains a significant gap in our understanding of how young people make decisions that affect their mental health. By examining decision-making styles, researchers can develop tools and programmes to guide youth toward choices that foster positive mental health outcomes. As global challenges like climate change and the perils of the digital world increasingly impact mental health, fostering vigilant decision-making could become a crucial component in supporting the well-being of young people worldwide.
Eugene E. Daniels contributed to this article.
