In the past decade, mental health has become a pressing issue, particularly among Generation Z, often referred to as Gen Z, who were born between the mid-1990s and the early 2010s. This generation faces unique societal, economic, and technological pressures that contribute to heightened mental health challenges. Let’s analyse the multifaceted factors underlying why Gen Z experiences a disproportionate burden of mental health issues.
Survival in the Digital Culture
One characteristic that defines Gen Z is their immersion in digital technology and social media. While technology offers numerous benefits, such as instant connectivity and access to information, it also exposes individuals to a barrage of social pressures, unrealistic standards, and cyberbullying. Constant comparison on social media platforms can lead to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and anxiety as Gen Z navigates curated versions of reality that may not reflect the full spectrum of human experience.
Academic Pressure and Performance
Gen Z faces intense academic pressure and performance expectations from a young age. The competitive nature of education systems and a societal emphasis on academic achievement place immense stress on young individuals who want to excel academically. This pressure can manifest as anxiety, depression, and burnout as Gen Z grapples with the fear of failure and the relentless pursuit of perfection in both academic and extracurricular pursuits.
Economic Uncertainty and Stress
Economic instability and uncertain job prospects contribute to heightened anxiety and stress among Gen Z. Many members of this generation entered teenage during or after the financial crisis of 2008, facing limited job opportunities, rising student loan debt, and housing unaffordability. The gig economy and precarious employment arrangements further exacerbate financial insecurity, making it challenging for Gen Z to plan for their future and achieve financial independence.
Sociopolitical Global Challenges
Gen Z is coming of age in a world characterised by sociopolitical unrest, environmental crises, and global challenges. Issues such as climate change, social injustice, and political polarisation weigh heavily on young individuals’ minds, leading to feelings of disillusionment, helplessness, and existential anxiety. The constant bombardment of distressing news and uncertainty about the future contribute to a sense of despair and overwhelm among Gen Z.
Mental Health Stigmatised
Despite growing awareness and advocacy efforts, mental health stigma persists, preventing many Gen Z individuals from seeking help or disclosing their struggles. Fear of judgment, discrimination, or misunderstanding may deter young people from accessing mental health resources and support services. The hesitation to seek help can exacerbate mental health issues and lead to a worsening of symptoms over time.
Barriers to Access Mental Health Care
Even for those who are willing to seek help, barriers to accessing mental health care remain a significant challenge for Gen Z. Structural barriers such as cost, availability, and lack of culturally competent services may limit access to quality mental health treatment. Additionally, long wait times, stigma, and inadequate insurance coverage further compound the difficulties faced by young individuals seeking support for their mental well-being.
Coping Mechanisms
Despite the myriad challenges they face, Gen Z demonstrates remarkable resilience and resourcefulness in coping with mental health issues. Many individuals turn to peer support networks, online communities, and self-care practices to navigate their mental health challenges. By sharing experiences, seeking validation, and advocating for change, Gen Z challenges societal norms and promotes conversations about mental health in ways that previous generations may not have done.
2020 Onwards
A study conducted between 2020 and 2023 revealed a concerning trend regarding the mental health of Indians spanning all age groups, ranging from 18 to 74 years old. Particularly alarming was the decline observed among individuals aged 18 to 24, indicating a significant deterioration in their psychological well-being over the study period. This age group experienced the most pronounced decrease in mental health scores, suggesting a pressing need for intervention and support.
The study attributed this decline in mental health to various factors exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly altered social dynamics and daily routines. Factors such as reduced social interactions heightened unemployment rates, and increased reliance on the internet and social media platforms contributed to the deterioration in mental health across all age groups. However, the impact was most severe among young adults aged 18 to 24, highlighting their vulnerability to the stressors associated with the pandemic.
Interestingly, the study did not find a significant correlation between economic factors and the decline in mental health scores, as the trends persisted across different income levels. It suggests that other societal and environmental factors, such as social isolation and increased screen time, played a more prominent role in influencing mental health outcomes during this period.
Notably, among 18 to 24-year-olds, there was less variability in mental health scores across different states compared to older age groups. Southern states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala exhibited better mental health outcomes than their counterparts in the Northern regions. This regional disparity underscores the need to consider geographical and cultural factors when addressing mental health challenges among young adults in India.
Despite widespread discussions about the impact of academic stress and economic instability on mental health, the study emphasised the importance of identifying early risk factors to inform prevention strategies. With India’s youth population exceeding 200 million, there is a pressing requirement to address the unique challenges young people face, particularly concerning their transition into the labour market. Even among the more educated and technologically savvy youth, barriers to effective employment may persist, highlighting the importance of tailored support and intervention programs.
Mental Health Mantras
The prevalence of mental health issues among Gen Z is a complex phenomenon influenced by a multitude of societal, economic, and cultural factors. From the pressures of digital culture to the challenges of economic uncertainty and global crises, Gen Z faces unprecedented challenges that impact their mental well-being. Addressing such issues requires a multifaceted approach that involves promoting mental health literacy, dismantling stigma, improving access to care, and fostering supportive environments that prioritise the holistic well-being of young individuals. By understanding the root causes of Gen Z’s mental health challenges and working collaboratively to address them, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate society where all individuals can thrive mentally, emotionally, and socially.
