There is growing anxiety about entering a job market where entry-level roles are being reshaped by automation and AI.

Despite these challenges, there is a strong current of resilience. Many 18-year-olds find hope in: Teens' future plans and goals | Pew Research Center

It’s a period of intense questioning regarding work, values, and love. Modern Pressures and Challenges

The prefrontal cortex—responsible for decision-making and self-control—is still developing at 18, making this group naturally more sensitive to stress and emotional overload.