Where Young People are Getting Their Advice From
Growing up comes with plenty of questions, and young adults today are navigating a world that moves faster than ever. Whether it’s learning how to manage money, choosing a career path, improving mental health, or figuring out relationships, the need for trustworthy guidance has never been greater. A range of platforms, including social, professional, and community-driven, offer advice that’s easy to access and tailored to different learning styles.
One of the most popular and accessible places to start is YouTube. With creators covering everything from budgeting basics to emotional resilience, it’s a go-to platform for visual learners.
Channels like those focused on personal finance, wellness, or career development provide step-by-step guidance mixed with relatable storytelling. The strength of YouTube lies in its ability to simplify complex topics, think tutorials on building a résumé, investing for beginners, or starting healthy habits, all through engaging video content.
For deeper discussions and real-world perspectives, many young adults turn to Reddit. Subreddits like r/AskReddit, r/personalfinance, r/careeradvice, and r/relationship_advice serve as massive peer-support communities. Users can ask questions anonymously and receive responses from individuals who have experienced similar situations. The upvote system helps surface the most helpful and thoughtful answers. While it’s not professional advice, it offers genuine insight from a wide range of lived experiences, making it a valuable platform for everyday dilemmas.
When the question requires more credible, expert-driven advice, professional websites and forums step in. Platforms such as Psychology Today, MindTools, and career coaching sites provide structured information on mental health, personal skill development, leadership, and workplace communication. These spaces are especially useful for young adults facing more complex challenges—like managing anxiety, building career confidence, or improving interpersonal relationships—where expert insight matters most.
Meanwhile, TikTok and Instagram have become surprisingly influential sources of life advice. Short-form content creators share quick tips and motivational reminders that resonate with young audiences. While these platforms are trend-driven, they can be extremely helpful when following credible voices, but young adults also need to be aware of who is fake and who is real. Some people offering advice on these platforms have no professional experience or expertise.
Podcasts are another powerful resource, especially for young adults who prefer listening over reading or watching. Shows covering topics like personal growth, career journeys, relationships, and financial independence offer deeper, more thoughtful advice than fast-paced social platforms. Podcasts also allow young adults to absorb guidance during commutes, workouts, or downtime, making them a practical and flexible tool for personal development.
On the more interactive side, mobile apps designed for personal improvement offer hands-on learning experiences. Apps such as financial planners, mindfulness guides, and productivity tools help young adults build real habits rather than just absorb information. Daily check-ins, goal-setting features, and guided exercises create consistency—something that’s essential for long-term growth.
Ultimately, the “best” platform depends on the type of advice needed. Social platforms offer quick insights, YouTube provides step-by-step clarity, Reddit supplies real-life perspectives, expert sites deliver professional guidance, podcasts bring depth, and apps help with long-term consistency.
