The current study examines the role of secure attachment and a sense of meaning in life as internal resources for resilience during “emerging adulthood” (ages 18-26), a phase marked by identity exploration and significant instability. These internal resources are hypothesized to not only enhance resilience and mental well-being but also serve as protective factors against tendencies towards substance misuse and behavioral addictions among young adults. The research explores the potential of young adults’ social networks (friends, authority figures) to provide these resources beyond parents. As the ability of social networks to serve as a source of security and meaning can be influenced in adulthood, this could illuminate mechanisms that enhance well-being and inhibit addictive behaviors, offering insights into interventions aimed at bolstering mental health and resilience during emerging adulthood. This work is critical for developing targeted supports that address the unique challenges faced by young adults during this transitional life stage, potentially transforming approaches to mental health and addiction prevention.