The list of apparent differences between Generation Z (Gen Z) and Millenials continues to grow in light of recent reports revealing that approximately half of the Gen Z population struggles to positively progress in their lives whilst they evidently struggle with mental health issues [5]. This finding poses the question; what major issues are being experienced by Gen Z in modern society that are contributing to increasing rates of poor mental health?

Although not all researchers agree on the method of analysing generation research, in this particular circumstance, implementing this strategy is significant and necessary as it provides a greater insight as to why the results yield the way they do. 

Negative emotions are much more likely to be experienced by Gen Z than millennials, as found by the Gallup-WFF study [7]. The study was conducted nationwide in the United States over a number of years with a target group of individuals aged 12 to 26. The opinions and experiences of these members of Gen Z were tracked over time in efforts to gather data that would aid in implementing decisions that addressed key issues [7]. It was found that mental health conditions, including but not limited to stress, anxiety and loneliness, are not only increasing in number, but they have also become normalised amongst society. This has resulted in the overall downplay of the severity of these conditions [5].

Research suggests that generational differences and continuous challenges in the areas of finance, economy and society are large contributors to the personal struggles faced by Gen Z. Uncertainties about the future were one of the key worries outlined by individuals, especially considering the sudden impact of COVID-19, as well as the steadfast increase in the cost of living [4]. 

There are a number of possibilities as to why such a considerable amount of the Gen Z population is experiencing a mental health decline. Can the normalisation and decreased stigmatisation of mental health in Gen Z compared to older generations be the reason for such results? 

Although the normalisation of mental health issues offers some positive insights, it can also result in misinformation [2]. Knowing the difference between a feeling and a condition is important because generalised comments and the inability to recognize the severity of daily symptoms can make individuals feel dismissed and further lessen the seriousness of their circumstance.

Generational differences between Gen Z and older generations, including financial struggles (increased cost of living), economical strains (job market, competition) and societal expectations (following a traditional path, conforming, pressure) can contribute to the increasing number of mental health struggles reported by Gen Z. 

With much of Gen Z living hand to mouth, it is no surprise that the increased cost of living is a pervasive concern. Although immediate needs can be fulfilled by taking on side jobs and creating other streams of income, the future remains unknown for those who are unable to save efficiently [3]. 

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many Gen Z individuals found themselves unable to secure co-op and internships, which were vital in gaining experience prior to completing school and formally entering the job market. This resulted in companies overlooking these individuals when they applied for work, as those that encompassed relevant work experience were given more priority. This ongoing cycle has resulted in the predicament faced by many; How do I get experience if no one hires me? The pandemic impeded on many vital opportunities that past generations did not have difficulty in obtaining. With the competition in the job market increasing in population dense cities, it is no surprise that Gen Z is reporting higher rates of mental health issues fueled by stress and uncertainty [4].

Conforming to societal or cultural roles can be advantageous in some situations, but when it goes against the path that one wants to take for themself, it can be detrimental to one’s mental health. Especially considering the unprecedented issues faced by Gen Z, the traditional path can no longer be applied and expected to work the same way it has worked for older generations. Living autonomously is important because this results in a greater quality of life. Conforming to pressures evidently results in decreased mental health such as higher levels of stress, depression and anxiety [6]. Situations more prevalent in the present day can also contribute to the reason as to why Gen Z reports worse mental health. 

Increased and continuous reports of mass shootings, violence and safety concerns, sexual harassment and assault reports, political climate, discrimination, inconsistencies in the justice system and deportation of immigrants are just a few of the issues that are more prevalently seen and experienced by Gen Z in comparison to older generations. This is especially concerning because the Gen Z population is at an age where growth development is still ongoing. These issues understandably cause significant stress amongst Gen Z individuals. Constant exposure to these sensitive topics, either directly or indirectly, can lead to increased stress levels, which are a precursor for several physical and mental health issues. Although almost half of Gen Z says that they feel compelled to volunteer or support causes that resonate with them, the inability to manage the stress that will inevitably occur with constant exposure to such heavy issues is further contributing to declining mental health in the population [1]. 

The research analysing why Gen Z is experiencing higher rates of mental health issues in correlation to older generations is important because if the trend continues, further generations will be impacted as well. Identifying the reasoning behind the declining health of individuals will help to tackle such issues and create solutions that are effective. In addition, the young population of Gen Z is the future, contributing immensely to the workforce and striving to make change.

Further research needs to be done on how Gen Z is affected in different areas of the world. Although the research presented in this article is examining the western world, there is strength in knowing if the same patterns can be attributed globally. This will allow for the negative factors to be analysed without bias. 

The unique experiences undergone by Gen Z can provide insight as to why mental illness is becoming more prevalent in the population. The struggles these individuals face are distinctive to their generation and therefore invoke stress and uncertainty as there is no blueprint to follow on how to overcome the issues of today. Building an environment that supports the struggles and strengths of Gen Z as well as having resources readily available that help individuals effectively deal with the issues contributing to mental illness are measures that will guide the population in a better direction. 

References

1. Bethune S. Gen Z more likely to report mental health concerns [Internet]. American Psychological Association; 2019. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2019/01/gen-z 

2. Fu D. [Internet].https://www.smhp.psych.ucla.edu/pdfdocs/normalize.pdf 

3. High cost of living top concern of Gen Zs; nearly 50 pc Gen zs have side jobs: Report. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/jobs/hr-policies-trends/high-cost-of-living-top-concern-of-gen-zs-nearly-50-pc-gen-zs-have-side-jobs-report/articleshow/100339191.cms?from=mdr 

4. Kelly J. Gen-z is labeled as “difficult” in the workplace, but there’s more to the story. Forbes Magazine. 2023. https://www.forbes.com/sites/jackkelly/2023/07/31/gen-z-is-labeled-as-difficult-in-the-workplace-but-theres-more-to-the-story/?sh=1afd4367d7f3 

5. Shoichet CE. Is gen Z thriving? not so much, according to a new study [Internet]. Cable News Network; 2023. https://www.cnn.com/2023/09/14/health/gen-z-mental-health-gallup-wellness-cec/index.html 

6. In-person & online therapy and Psychiatric Services – Clarity Clinic – Chicago, IL [Internet]. 2020. https://www.claritychi.com/societal-conformity-and-mental-health/#:~:text=The%20Problem%20with%20Following%20a%20%E2%80%9CTraditional%20Path%E2%80%9D&text=Forcing%20people%20to%20conform%2C%20or,%2C%20anxiety%2C%20and%20increased%20stress 

7. Gallup Inc. Walton Family Foundation [Internet]. Gallup; 2023. https://www.gallup.com/analytics/506663/american-youth-research.aspx#ite-510713