Welcome September- the month known for Labor Day, the start of Autumn, going back to school, and in the behavioral health space, Suicide Prevention. September is also recognized as Intergenerational Month - a time to celebrate the connection between young and old that strengthens families, communities, and futures. Today, we hear a lot about Boomers vs Millennials or Millennials vs Gen Z. What we should be focusing on is building connections between generations. Studies have shown how relationships between generations have a great impact on the mental health of everyone involved.

Building Bonds Benefits Everyone

A study on programs incorporating adolescents and older adults (Webster, Norwood, Waterworth & Leavy 2023)* found that each generation had a reduction in perceived stereotypes and an increase in community. The study also showed that adolescents had improved skill development and were helped with their own personal identity formation. The adults in this study had improved cognitive and social engagements which increased their quality of life.

Lifetime Lessons

As a member of the sandwich generation, I enjoy watching my Boomer mother interact with my Gen Z daughter. It is amazing to think of the perspectives of each. My mother was hitchhiking in the 60s and my daughter doesn’t know what life is like without a smart phone. They teach each other. My mother tells stories of life when she was growing up, the ability to hitchhike without fear, and my daughter teaches my mother about technology, and the ability to have audiovisual production as an elective in high school. I am amazed by them both.

It's Not all Relative – Forming Non-Familial Relationships

The study referenced earlier in this article is about nonrelated intergenerational relationships. Some of us may not be blessed to have older generational family members. However, there are many other ways to forge these relationships. Start volunteering with programs at a church or community center. There are volunteer opportunities at local libraries and some schools.

If you’d like to learn more about the benefits of intergenerational connections and how to build and strengthen them, EAP is here to help. Please call us today at (901) 683-5658 or toll free 1-800-880-5658 to schedule an appointment

*Effectiveness of intergenerational exchange programs between adolescents and older adults: A systematic Review Webster, M. Norwood, K., Waterworth, J., Leavey, G. Journal of Intergenerational Relationships 2/11/2023.

About the Author

LaNita Conley, LMSW
Behavioral Health Screener

LaNita Conley is a Licensed Master’s Social Worker. She received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Memphis. She has experience working with underprivileged families as a case manager and with the adult population while working as a medical social worker. She likes to spend her spare time with her family and experimenting in the kitchen.