ums.ac.id, SURAKARTA, March 3, 2026 – Entering your 20s often feels like navigating a maze without a map. There are demands to quickly secure a stable job, become financially independent, and expectations to start a serious relationship. This barrage of pressure often triggers feelings of anxiety, confusion, and a sense of falling behind peers.
This phenomenon, commonly known as a Quarter Life Crisis, took center stage in the 9th episode of the UMS Insight program. Hosted by Yusuf, this casual talk featured Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) Psychology Expert, Septian Wahyu Rahmanto, S.Psi., M.Psi., Psychologist, to dissect this 20-something crisis in a straightforward and reassuring manner.
Not a Disease, But a Developmental Challenge
Citing the concept introduced by Wilner and Robbins, Septian explained that a Quarter Life Crisis generally affects those in the 20 to 29 age bracket. However, the seeds of this confusion can sprout as early as 18, right when someone graduates from high school and faces the crossroads of their life.
“A quarter life crisis is a developmental challenge in your 20s characterized by feelings of discomfort, anxiety, and confusion due to life’s demands. It is not a mental disorder. It is a commonly experienced phase. Just a developmental challenge,” Septian firmly reassured.
Though normal, Septian offered a word of caution. If feelings of failure, despair, and anxiety about the future are left to drag on without proper emotional management, the condition can worsen and lead to clinical depression.
The Expectation Trap in the Social Media Era
In today’s digital age, the pressures of a Quarter Life Crisis are often exacerbated by the habit of comparing one’s own achievements with the seemingly perfect lives of others online. Seeing peers buying houses or landing career promotions can trigger a massive crisis of self-confidence.
“The challenge now is the ability to filter information. Not everything we see on social media should become our standard of living,” advised the UMS Psychology Faculty lecturer.
Tactical Steps to Make Peace with the Crisis
So, how does one break out of this confusing phase? According to Septian, the first and most crucial step is Self-Acceptance. Be honest with yourself about the feelings that are raging inside.
He suggests that young people start having a dialogue with themselves (internal reflection). Ask yourself, “Why am I thinking about this? What is the impact on me?” Through this dialogue, a person can map out their strengths and weaknesses, and reformulate their life goals more realistically.
For students who feel the mental burden is too heavy to bear alone, seeking professional help is a wise step. UMS itself provides free counseling facilities for students at SMHWS UMS.