26-year-old woman shares 3 concerning reasons why Gen Zs are more 'anxious and depressed'—it's a cry for help
People in almost every generation face a different set of concerns as they grow up. These concerns could be common to the entire generation or faced by a few segments. However, depression, anxiety and other mental health concerns have become a very usual issue for Gen Z and there are three reasons behind the same, as per a 26-year-old Lara Rodwell. She shared that she has a great life, but she still suffers from anxiety and depression. Many people from her generation might resonate with the feeling, per The iPaper.
Rodwell shared that she recently started a full-time job as a content creator for a non-profit organization. Her job has significantly reduced her financial stress and has allowed her to move into a two-bedroom flat with her boyfriend. She wondered why she felt so anxious and depressed even though everything seemed to be perfect on the surface. She shared that she felt anxious every morning, even after trying a variety of medicines to heal herself. Also, Rodwell feels as if she is being crushed by the expectations of society, but she is not alone. In 2000, one in four people faced mental health concerns, but now the number has shot up to one in three people, per The Guardian.
The uncertain working conditions and the economy are some of the reasons, per Rodwell. According to statistics, around one million people in the UK between the ages of 16-24 are NEET (Not in education, employment, or training), per The Independent. It is hard for Gen Z to get through the work world due to the pressure of expectations. Rodwell points out that she has a job, but she is still scared of economic uncertainty and her own perfectionism. It is hard for this generation to keep a job because of the judgment they face at their workplaces. At the same time, it is hard to get a job altogether, as AI threatens to take over entry-level jobs. Being considered lazy or entitled as a Gen Z could also lead to self-doubt in many people. Along with that, social media influence to make the most of your 20s, take risks or have financial stability can be confusing and burdensome for many people.
Gen Z tends to compare themselves to successful people on social media, which can be stressful. Rodwell revealed that she feels like she is stuck in "survival mode." She has been trying hard to keep her life going and any expense beyond that feels like a luxury. "Gen Z is financially the worst off, struggling to afford housing, education, and even the sense of stability that should come with adulthood," stated Dr. Elizabeth Cook, a clinical psychologist and author, also pointing out how the generation is struggling, even after being the most educated one so far. Rodwell revealed that she feels stuck in the grind and might never reach milestones like buying a house or retiring, even after working for years. Financial insecurity is a big reason behind her anxiety, and she isolates herself instead of burdening other people with her problems.
"The rise in mental health struggles within Gen Z reflects both real challenges and their increased willingness to seek help," Dr. Sophie Mort, clinical psychologist at Headspace, remarked. Although Gen Z is more willing to ask for help, they might not get permanent solutions for what they are facing. In Rodwell's case, her platform, The Lonely Club, designed to help people become more aware of loneliness, had been a huge help. She emphasized how valuing stability, reprioritizing connections and assuring oneself that we are doing enough could aid people in moving forward and feeling better.