[gum_ina_package]

You simply can't. I'm a 20 something with hella debt. Would love to go out and do my own thing or even work at a smaller company for less money, but more responsibility. Unfortunately that's not really an option for me. My #1 priority is to get out of debt as fast as possible.

[justaman]

This. 100x This.

I'm certain that there are thousands in a similar situation. People are starting to recognize that the crippling debt is having a negative impact. See first-time home buyers average age.

(recent college grad)

[jonlucc]

It's also going to hurt the next generation, but I can't tell in what way yet. Many of my friends in stable, well-paying jobs are far too broke to consider having children. On the other hand, all of the people I know who didn't get a 4-year degree have kids.

[justaman]

This has been my observation as well.