Conflict is a normal part of life, but it can have long-lasting psychological effects if not managed properly. This is especially true for 25-34-year-olds, who are in the prime of their lives and may be facing more conflicts than any other age group. Let's take a closer look at how unresolved conflict affects mental health and what steps can be taken to help resolve it.
The Impact of Unresolved Conflict on Mental Health
Unresolved conflict can have severe psychological consequences, including increased stress levels, feelings of depression or anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. In fact, research suggests that unresolved conflict is one of the most common causes of mental health issues in young adults. A study at the University College London found that unresolved conflict was associated with higher levels of psychological distress among 25-34 year olds.
Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that unresolved conflicts can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches and stomachaches, as well as emotional reactions such as anger, sadness and fear. These physical and emotional reactions can further exacerbate existing mental health issues or even lead to new ones.
How to Resolve Conflicts
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help resolve conflicts in a healthy manner. The first step is to identify the source of the conflict—whether it’s an interpersonal issue or an external problem—and then work towards a resolution by discussing potential solutions with all parties involved. It’s also important to practice active listening so both sides feel heard and understood during these conversations. Finally, it’s important to remember that resolving conflicts takes time and patience; don’t let your emotions get the best of you!
Conflict is an unavoidable part of life, but if not managed properly it can have serious psychological consequences—especially for 25-34 year olds who are dealing with multiple sources of stressors in their lives at once. Thankfully there are ways we can manage our conflicts in order to reduce stress levels and improve mental health outcomes. By actively listening to each side's perspective and taking time to discuss potential solutions together, we can find healthier ways to resolve our conflicts without sacrificing our mental wellbeing in the process.
80:20 Conflict Management Strategies
