My 13-year-old returns from school.
He throws his bag on the floor and holds me tightly.
Incessantly crying, he says that he won’t go to school again.
As a mother, I can’t understand what is bothering my small kid. He’s growing faster than I expected. He grasps things quickly. He learns fast, and his strong tech sense impresses everyone.
I am worried that he prefers to display unruly behaviour rather than discussing the matter with me. “It’s not easy to handle this generation!” I know that my views are not different from the parents from the previous generations. It’s the duty of the parent to understand and deal with the problems faced by the child. In such situations, fostering open communication becomes crucial to bridge the gap and address the underlying concerns. Patience and empathy play pivotal roles in navigating these challenges, allowing for a more profound connection between parent and child.
After a thoughtful discussion session, he opens up. A guy at school bullies him for his skinny structure. I am shocked to learn that, while we ensure that nothing troubles our little ones, many unwanted elements exist without our knowledge and consent. Another concern is that children today react swiftly to these unwanted elements, unlike kids from the past who might have ignored many such instances.
A few years ago, individuals below the age of 25 were perceived as the most carefree generation. The scenario is completely reversed today. I feel uncomfortable to see that most Gen-Zers, the middle schoolers to new professionals, are facing mental health issues like anxiety and depression more than the people of any other age group. It is a matter of worry that their expression and reaction to emotions is sometimes not acceptable.
Parents are worried about the mental health of their children. This is the latest development in the field of generation-gap study. I am one of those parents who watch their children growing very minutely and a slight change in the child’s physical or behavioural pattern ignites their Sherlock Holmes instincts. I started googling about the behavioural changes in my son and the research brought some eye-opening truths.
Mental Health Issues in Gen Z
It is found that the mental health struggle is far more prevalent in the younger generation, Gen Z than in their predecessors. Although some researchers argue that these Generation labels are harmful, many still assert that the mental health of Gen Z is not as robust as it was in previous generations. Studies have shown a significant shift towards mental health instability among Gen Z.
The most common problems that Gen Z people deal with are:
• Anxiety and depression
I was surprised to learn that Gen Zers are more likely to get anxious and depressed. They experience negative emotions more than the other age groups. This clears my doubt as to why they don’t shy away from harming themselves or even others. New-age parents are continuously pushing their children to achieve big in every aspect of life. This is one of the major reasons why our young kids suffer anxiety, leading them to resort to aggressive behavior.
• Least positive life outlook
I have myself felt and research has also approved that Gen Zers have the least positive outlook in life. I sometimes blame it on the technology blast that doesn’t let us acquire a sense of achievement. We always lack something because there’s no dearth of competitors in this closely-knit world. Anyhow, these are my personal views, not based on any research.
• Lower social and emotional well-being
For this younger generation, the social circle has expanded from a few hundred people to the whole world, thanks to Social media. They want to share the updates about their thriving lives on social media which is why they are either very active on these platforms, showcasing their talents, achievements, and pictures, or altogether avoiding them. It gives Gen Z a sense of completeness because of their companions who behave this way. FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) is a new term added to the Gen Z dictionary representing the anxiety felt when missing out on something exciting.
• Behavioral health condition
The behavior of Gen Z is nowhere near that of their predecessors. They like to be left alone and yet seek approval from the whole world for their actions. Restless and speed-lovers, Gen Z fellows want to be on the fastest lane around. I know that the characteristics change with the generation gap but the explosion of technology has made the gap wider this time 😉
Why mental health issues are prevalent in Gen Z: Seeking Solutions
Generation Z is shaped by digitization, climate change, a fast-changing financial landscape, and above all, COVID-19. They want everything in life and that too very fast. The possible reasons for the declining mental health are:
1. Tech and social media seem to be some of the most triggering factors when it comes to mental wellness, at least according to the popular opinion of parents. If we consider the findings of research, it’s not tech and social media that are inherently harmful, but rather how we use them that makes the difference. Research from the McKinsey Health Institute shows that social media and technology play a role in significant changes in mental health, but these changes are not always negative. For older generations, social media has proven to be a boon. In contrast, Gen Z tends to take everything on social media personally, leading to anxiety and depression as the likely outcomes. Regulating the time spent on social media can reduce the pressure on children. I agree with other parents that the control should be implemented after due consultation with the child.
2. Academic Stress is another factor that increases the anxiety level in Gen Z. It has always been there, but the rising competitive nature and high expectations usually don’t allow students to pursue subjects that match their personality. As parents, it’s vital to recognize that this academic pursuit can become a blind race, undermining the well-being of our children. We must be careful while selecting the academic stream for our children. There is an option of paying a visit to an Educational consultant who can guide the child towards a bright future.
3. Financial Instability Gen Z prefers to live alone, away from the family. They take substantial loans for higher studies and take a longer time to repay. It seems that most of their peak youth is spent paying the loan. Gen Z people find themselves short of many privileges. The irony is that this awakening comes late, after the passing of their important years. The elders can help Gen Z overcome their fears and anxiety by sharing their words of wisdom. I hope that the relationship between the two generations becomes stronger so that both can learn from each other.
4. Seeking social isolation: Gen Zers prefer to live alone with their gadgets. It further increases their insecurity and in turn, much-anticipated anxiety. The mental health of Gen Z is affected badly by their isolated living. Gen Zers can recognize their mental health problems but turn to social media platforms for remedy. Close friends and family should identify their unusual behavior and persuade them to get proper treatment.
Growing up in a digitally immersive era, Gen Z faces unprecedented pressures, from the constant connectivity of social media to the rapid dissemination of information. While these technologies offer avenues for expression and support, they also contribute to stressors like cyberbullying and unrealistic social comparisons. Additionally, societal expectations and the fast-paced nature of the modern world can impact their mental well-being. On a positive note, Gen Z is notably proactive in seeking mental health resources, advocating for open conversations, and normalizing discussions around mental well-being.
As we navigate the evolving landscape of technology and societal expectations, it is crucial to recognize the proactive efforts of Gen Z in reshaping the conversation around mental well-being. By fostering open dialogues, dismantling stigmas, and providing accessible resources, we can collectively contribute to a healthier and more supportive environment for the mental health of Generation Z. As this generation continues to assert its influence on societal norms, addressing mental health concerns with empathy and understanding remains a shared responsibility. Together, let us strive to cultivate a future where the mental well-being of every individual, regardless of generation, is nurtured and prioritized.
Definition:
Gen Z: Generation Z includes all people born between 1996 and 2010.
Millennials: The millennial generation includes all those people who were born between 1981 and 1996.
This post is a part of Truly Yours Holistic Emotions Blog Hop by Rakhi Jayashankar and Roma Gupta.
PANORAMIC RIPPLES 
Aditi, I too think the fact that the Gen Z relies more on gadgets and social media for support and less on real people , is also the reason they have more insecurities and doubt about real connections.Furthet I think also being born in nuclear families robs them of the cushioning effect of a joint family when parents are away.
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Aditi, I feel for you and your kiddo. Like all good parents you are navigating this with the right attitude.
Very nice post, well researched and laid out.
Agree with you that Gen Z is feeling this pressure cos the world just shrunk on them and their backyard landed in their palm. I feel grateful that my kiddos were exposed to social media education very early on in elementary and middle school. Majority of the gen Z were not exposed to this education on how to navigate in the digital world, how to unplug and how to find grounding in real world, how to manage cyberspace and cyber bullying. No wonder their is a rise in mental health concerns. You also stated that it’s imperative that parents, teachers and elders talk to the young ones with relate-able positive examples about what future might hold for them.
One thing I might add, anecdotal – monkey see monkey do. Gen Z may now think everything is a mental health issue by listening to everyone else around them talk about it. Perhaps we need to help them understand the difference between brushing things off, being strong vs. when to seek help.
Again, great points in your post, thanks for raising awareness.
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Dear Aditi, please give my love and hugs to your kiddo. Though I was at my early youth, but I had to face bullying everyday at my college days. It also came from the lecturers, you can imagine how gruesome was my mental condition at that time. I hope I would have met someone like you at that time who would share these important information with me, at least I would have felt comfortable and pacified with the words of motivation. But I didn’t have anyone like you, even my parents couldn’t understand that a young adult can face bullying too. Your article is very well-researched, and the way you have presented the information, they helped me to understand the problem better. Thanks for raising such a vital subject to discuss through this blog hop.
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The more exposed they are to the world of gadgets, the more sensory overload they have. Quite often I hear the line what is wring with the kids these days. However, no one ever talked about why this is happening to kids these days. What you said makes so much sense. We need to handle the as gently.
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Can’t agree more. I too have a teenager at home and each day is a new battle. I can only blame technology that’s over-exposing these kids, but in the world we live today, we cannot imagine technology not touching any one aspect of our life. It’s a huge challenge.
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Parenting is a huge challenge in these times. In our time we did not have to contend with peer pressure or internet. Just do what is right for him, keep the communication always open.That was my mantra-spend time with them and make them share everything
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With a mom like you, I’m sure he will feel better soon. Even my 6-year-old had the same issue because he is not only thin but he is smaller than the rest of the class. There are overgrown kids who make fun of him. Now at 7 he handles it well.
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Dear Aditi,
Just like you I too have an example at my place too where my sister’s son used to get bullied for his dark complexion in school and that used to affect the young heart both mentally. My sister was really worried about the complexities developing in the child. Hearing this some several years back I just told him, go and say your so called friends that yes, I am dark and that’s why you look bright beside me. My presence makes your get identified in the crowd and so thank me.
Thankfully he overcome those complexities and going steady in the company of good friends and blessing and support of his parents. So what I will say to you is that be the best support for your son and trust me your love, guidance and support will help him to witness the bright side of things and I am sure he will come out with flying colors in life which make you and each one of us proud of the little one. Give him my blessings, love and hug.
You have mentioned one point Financial instability. here I will say that not only the kids but in majority of the cases parents take educational loan and later make the child pay the loan once he /she gets job. Here the burden of instability was gifted by the parent and I have a big example in my family. I will not mention who but someone very close to me, i witness his sufferings as a child of such parent and lost a great part of youth to pay a significant part of the loan.
Gen Z is definitely in risk and many parent are coming forward to talk about it and support the kid. But in earlier times especially in our times also such cases exist.
I am glad you came forward which such a topic. No worries when you are the mom of this star boy, no one can stop him. He will shine for sure. Much love to you and the little one.
Samata
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You have hit the right chord buddy with the parents these days struggling with Gen Z being so vulnerable it is all the more important . We need to fix this as parents because I genuinely know what kids are facing today and like you I too observe them minutely so that we can cushion them when needed but is it appropriate because how are we preparing them for future this way
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I have zero experience with Gen Z, but I agree that life in a city is full of pressures. We need to slow down and experience life, instead of clicking away randomly. If we seriously look into the world around us, I only see children of the labour enjoying their time in the open, playing and fighting, away from the digital world. But sadly, their poverty doesn’t let them shine. The world is confusing and I guess parents need to anchor their children more now, unlike our days when we were always within a strong family fold.
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Aditi, this post about Gen Z and their increased anxiety and depression is eye-opening. It reminds me of my teenage years when I was teased about being skinny, but I never let it affect me negatively. I can’t help but think that our parents’ approach of not pushing us too hard may have contributed to our resilience. It’s crucial for today’s parents to strike that balance between ambition and emotional well-being for their kids.
Glad to read sakshi’s comment. This was always in my mind that Gen Z could be thinking that everything is a mental health problem because they hear so much talk about it. We should probably help them learn to tell the difference.
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Your comprehensive exploration of the challenges faced by Gen Z and the impact on their mental health is highly commendable. Your deep understanding of the factors influencing the younger generation’s mental well-being and your insightful analysis of the possible solutions provide valuable insights. It’s evident that your perspective is rooted in both personal observation and well-researched information. Thank you for shedding light on these critical issues and suggesting practical solutions to help support the mental health of our younger generation. Your approach to acknowledging these challenges and seeking solutions is truly appreciated.
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Gen Z has had it much tougher than we did back at that age. They’re forced to grow up before time and have to find their place in a world that’s extremely judgemental and ruthless to young impressionable minds. As parents we must try to prepare them for the future with mental and emotional security and the assurance that we have their back. Trust is important.
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You are correct. Gen Z-ers are under immense pressure these days. Expected to excel at everything and their lives are an open book thanks to social media. The way you are approaching it and sharing your learnings would prove immensely useful to moms out there.
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You have highlighted an important topic and I completely agree with you that these days kids have become more sensitive to many things. And definetly social media is to be blamed for such thoughts. It’s a grave situation that young kids are facing mental health issues.
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Aditi, hugs from my side. Your thoughtful exploration of the challenges facing Gen Z is deeply moving. Your dedication to understanding your son’s struggles and seeking solutions is commendable. Your love and support will undoubtedly help him navigate the complex landscape of the modern world. Keep being the caring, informed parent you are.
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Reading this post broke my heart. It’s alarming how much the younger generation, especially Gen Z, is dealing with mental health issues like anxiety and depression. The pressure they face from societal expectations and technology can be overwhelming. It’s crucial for us as parents to be aware of these challenges, to listen to our children, and provide them with the support they need. Let’s create an environment where they feel safe to open up about their feelings and fears.
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I agree that social media is the single most important catalyst for mental health problems amongst Gen-Z. I’m glad that parents in the US have now sued Meta for this very reason, and I hope that positive change will be implemented soon.
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Life has become so much more competitive for the Gen Z and thus parenting them is even tougher. As parents we need to forget how we were raised. There are completely new type of challenges that they face which we have not encountered as much. The over dependence on technology has somewhere made them less empathetic as well. As adults we need to monitor and guide in the best possible way.
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Compared to our lifestyle gen z now has more of advancement of emotional problems. Quite often as a parent it makes me pause to understand what is happening and.them give them the support that is needed
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From all my reads so far, this blog is the most delightful to read. The research and personal facts combined make it for a sensible read. Although, some of the personal opinions are shared right next to their researched facts and it can be confusing. The reason why Gen Z-ers are more anxious or so, is not about parents putting more pressure for career. I think the gen X-ers had more of that pressure. While reasons can be umpteen, facts and personal opinions should be listed separately I believe ☺️😃
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Bullying is such a sad reality of the world we live in! it starts at a young age and seems to go on in all age groups. The data and information is quite interesting and shows that this is a problem with a global footprint and no clear solutions at hand. Interesting read.
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Aditi, I can relate to all this. Though my daughter is not a Gen Z, if there is a terminology for kids born post-2010 she fits into that. But the behavioral aspects are so connected and related between the kids post-2010 and before. I have personally been seeing so many changes that it scares the hell out of me. At times I feel will I be able to di justice as a parent to my daughter. Will I raise her well and give her a rounded growth? Your post definitely has helped me to find ways to deal with the situations.
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Gadgets has it’s disadvantages and advantages when it comes to Gen Z. It prevents them from being in an echo chamber. Gen z at the same time can access social media under regulation which will not make the parent the enemy
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