Emerging Adulthood in Pakistan: Lived Experiences and Mental Health Implications

Emerging adulthood is a concept largely grounded in Western contexts. This study explored the lived experiences of emerging adults in Pakistan and examined how these experiences shape their mental health. A purposive sample of ten emerging adults aged 18–25 years was selected from universities in Lahore. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews to capture participants’ narratives. Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA) was used due to its flexibility and suitability for exploring subjective experiences. Five major themes emerged: unprecedented experiences, sense of self, social wellness, parent–emerging adult relationship, and emotional and psychological well-being. Findings indicate that uncertainty about the future, struggles with social integration, and parental expectations contribute to psychological pressures, while supportive relationships and adaptive coping strategies promote mental health. Overall, the study provides culturally relevant insights into transitional challenges faced by Pakistani emerging adults and highlights the interplay of personal, familial, and societal factors shaping mental health.