Generation Z, those born from the mid-1990s to the early 2010s, are experiencing a mental health crisis of unprecedented proportions. With skyrocketing rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, it’s crucial to understand why today’s youth are facing such immense challenges and what can be done to help.
1. Digital Age Pressures:
The advent of social media and the digital age plays a significant role in the mental health of Gen Z. A study in JAMA Pediatrics reported a correlation between screen time and depression in adolescents (Twenge, J.M., & Campbell, W.K., 2018). Social media, while a tool for connection, often exacerbates feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, and anxiety.
2. Economic and Societal Stressors:
Today’s youth are growing up in a world of economic uncertainty and rapid societal change. Research in the American Psychologist highlights how economic recessions and societal pressures contribute to increased anxiety among young people (Patalay, P., & Gage, S.H., 2019).
3. Academic and Career Pressures:
Academic pressure is another significant contributor to the mental health crisis in Gen Z. The pressure to excel in school and uncertainty about future careers can be overwhelming, as noted in a study in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology (Auerbach, R.P., et al., 2018).
4. Environmental Concerns:
Gen Z also faces anxiety about global issues like climate change. A survey by the American Psychological Association found that climate change significantly affects the mental health of young people, contributing to feelings of helplessness and fear about the future (Clay, R.A., 2019).
5. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic:
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing mental health issues among Gen Z. The Lancet published a study indicating a substantial increase in anxiety and depression among young people during the pandemic (Racine, N., et al., 2020).
Conclusion:
The mental health crisis among Gen Z is a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach, including enhancing digital literacy, providing economic and academic support, addressing environmental concerns, and offering accessible mental health services.
References:
- Twenge, J.M., & Campbell, W.K. (2018). Associations between screen time and lower psychological well-being among children and adolescents: Evidence from a population-based study. JAMA Pediatrics.
- Patalay, P., & Gage, S.H. (2019). Changes in millennial adolescent mental health and health-related behaviours over 10 years: a population cohort comparison study. American Psychologist.
- Auerbach, R.P., et al. (2018). The burden of academic pressure in youth: A pre-pandemic issue that cannot be ignored. Journal of Abnormal Psychology.
- Clay, R.A. (2019). Climate change takes a toll on our minds, too. American Psychological Association.
- Racine, N., et al. (2020). The COVID-19 pandemic and mental health of young people. The Lancet.
How to get in touch
If you or your patient/NDIS clients need immediate mental healthcare assistance, feel free to get in contact with us on 1800 NEAR ME – admin@therapynearme.com.au.
