Let’s be honest, you’re definitely not alone in this. So many of us are wandering around feeling anxious, drained, unmotivated, or just… off. While personal healing methods like therapy, meditation, or journaling are crucial, they can only do so much when we’re caught up in systems that seem designed to keep us feeling this way.
The reality is, it’s not just in your head. It’s the system at play. Capitalism, racism, sexism, ableism, and the relentless chase for productivity—these frameworks shape our lives, often in ways we don’t even notice until we hit a wall. Here are six ways the system is affecting your mental health—and why it’s not just you who’s feeling the strain.
1. Hustle culture and toxic productivity are burning you out
We’ve been conditioned to believe that our value is directly linked to how productive we are. If you’re not busy working, achieving, or side-huslting, it feels like you’re falling behind. This relentless push can lead to chronic stress and burnout, leaving little space for joy or relaxation. The system thrives on your constant hustle until you hit a wall.
2. Social Media traps you in comparison and anxiety
Social media platforms are designed to make you swipe—and feel bad. Every post is a highlight reel of someone’s life, and you can’t help but compare. Over time, this constant comparison triggers anxiety, low self-esteem, and loneliness. The system profits from your insecurities—because anxious people keep scrolling.
3. Healthcare systems are failing your mental health
For so many, getting mental health care is out of reach—costly therapy, months-long waiting lists, or being shut down by physicians. Especially if you’re from a marginalized community, the system often fails you. Instead of providing support, it keeps us trapped in survival mode, cycling between burnout and breakdown.
4. Capitalism makes you feel guilty for resting
Somehow, we’ve been conditioned to feel guilty about taking a break. Resting is often viewed as laziness, while pushing through exhaustion is celebrated. Even self-care has been commercialized. Genuine rest feels revolutionary because this system was never built to accommodate it.
5. Generational trauma is real—and ignored
Many of us carry trauma that isn’t even ours—handed down through generations of war, racism, poverty, and displacement. Yet, instead of recognizing this generational trauma, the system points fingers at us for our struggles. Healing is framed as an individual responsibility, when in truth, these wounds are shared.
6. Survival mode is sold as success
The system loves to highlight stories of resilience—people triumphing over seemingly insurmountable challenges. But merely surviving racism, poverty, or chronic illness isn’t inspiring; it’s draining. Living in survival mode is exhausting, yet the world continues to label it as strength.
Again, it’s not you – it’s the system
If you’re feeling drained, anxious, or stuck, remember this: the stress you’re experiencing is closely linked to the system around you. You’re not failing; you’re simply responding to a system that thrives on keeping you tired and overwhelmed.
Healing isn’t just about yoga or journaling—it’s about recognizing the larger context. It’s about learning to take a break without guilt, finding your community, and pushing back against a system that wasn’t built for our well-being.
You have the right to rest. You have the right to be angry. And most importantly—you’re not alone in this.
