Recognized for their dedication, drive, and role in shaping societal and political advancements, baby boomers are also often viewed by younger generations as self-assured, resistant to change, and prone to overreacting to minor matters.
“Boomer anxiety” was a term first used in 2023 by TikTok user @myexistentialdread in a video that has since been removed (though it’sstill available via stitches).
In the original video, the TikToker shared a conversation with an older customer who was upset about trying to purchase an item without a price tag. The user then asked why people in their 60s to 78s often become loudly frustrated over small issues—like learning how to use technology, waiting in long lines, or dealing with a simple customer service problem.
“Can someone please clarify this occurrence I’m referring to as ‘boomer panic,’ which happens when you’re interacting with someone who is a boomer, and whenever something becomes slightly annoying or goes off track, they instantly start screaming, screeching, and panicking?” the user asked.
In subsequent stitches and videos, other users (especially those working in customer service positions) shared comparable stories and ideas regarding the reasons these behaviors appear to be so common.
As a millennial, I can definitely connect with these feelings. I have two baby boomer parents who often overreact to nearly everything. But is this so-called boomer anxiety a real thing? We spoke with some professionals to gain a clearer understanding of what’s really happening.
Is “Boomer” Anxiety Really a Real Issue?
“Boomer panic” is not a recognized medical term, but certain data indicate that members of the baby boomer generation are experiencing feelings of being overwhelmed and frustrated by technology or expressing concern about their quality of life, according to Ashwini Nadkarni, an assistant professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, who spoke with HuffPost.
For instance, a Consumer Affairs article stated that 91% of baby boomers and Generation X individuals experienced feelings of being overwhelmed by technology. A survey involving 2,000 people revealed that the causes of burnout among baby boomers are primarily linked to declining health and the loss of independence.
These figures indicate that, indeed, baby boomers can become annoyed by various issues. However, this level of irritation may not be significantly different from that of younger generations, as noted by Patti M. Simone, a psychology professor at Santa Clara University.
“Although some people of any age might feel frustrated by new technology, changes in their routine, or unexpected problems, this isn’t specific to older adults, nor is it a characteristic of getting older,” Simone said to Huffpost.
It’s Not Always ‘Panic’ — It’s Imbalance
As per Nadkarni, several elements might lead to what others interpret as older adults’ outbursts, such as adjusting to new technologies, being in the “sandwich generation,” and handling retirement amid tough economic conditions.
Anyone can get frustrated with Facebook constantly changing its design or needing a QR code to access a menu (I’ve definitely been there). Technology is also advancing at a much quicker rate than it did when boomers were younger. Plus, the world has changed significantly — thanks to the rise of social media, intense political climates, a non-stop news cycle, and an uncertain economy. It’s not as if these strong reactions are completely unreasonable.
As one self-identified boomer commentedon a “boomer panic” TikTok: “I’m 64, I can clarify. It’s the irritation of residing in a world that you once knew thoroughly, but now you can’t grasp.”
Nadkarni also proposes that the demands of raising children (orgrandchildren), aging parents, and handling retirement can lead to these outbursts. Combine these elements with a background that didn’t focus on building the ability to manage or control emotions, and it could help explain why such situations occur.
“Newer generations have been brought up to value emotional well-being and mental health, leading to more open dialogue, emotional support, and less repression,” stated Nakardi.
Regarding the baby boomer generation, there was “a focus on more rigid parenting and increased social stigma around mental health issues,” which could have led them to suppress their feelings and gradually lose their ability to handle frustration, according to Nakardi.
Puncturing the Stereotype
However, despite baby boomers facing criticism for their inability to process theiremotionsIn real time, Simone observed that studies show older adults are frequently more skilled at reinterpreting situations, emphasizing the positive aspects, and handling stress.
“Although ‘boomer panic’ functions as a meme or stereotype, it should not be mistaken for a true representation of how most elderly individuals typically handle daily situations,” she added.
And, in the end, Nadkarni stated, when an individual is evidently out of balance or overwhelmed, using empathy is essential to assisting them in calming down.
When someone is overreacting,” Nadkarni noted, “the person’s nervous system reacts as though a trigger is a real danger, even when it isn’t.
This piece first was published onHuffPost.
