Top 5 Mental Health Challenges Facing Gen Z -- and How Therapy Helps
Who Is Gen Z and Why Are They Struggling With Mental Health?
Gen Z—typically defined as those born between 1997 and 2012—is the first generation to grow up entirely in the digital age. Constant exposure to social media, 24/7 news cycles, and online comparison culture has created a perfect storm for anxiety, depression, and emotional burnout. Gen Z is navigating mental health challenges in real time, often without the necessary coping skills or emotional support. From the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic to rising academic and economic pressures, it’s no surprise that Gen Z is reporting the highest rates of anxiety, depression, and stress-related conditions. While they’re more open than ever about mental wellness, many still struggle to find the tools and support they need to cope.
#1 Anxiety and Overwhelm in a Hyperconnected World
With GenZ being the first generation to grow up entirely in the digital age, this in turn lends itself to excessively more exposure during the most fundamental timeframe(s) of an individual's life. While having access can be a positive, too much of anything can begin to have negative effects. During our earlier years, we begin to form our sense of identity by taking in our perception of the world and others around us. Our views are heavily influenced by other’s opinions and outlooks. With a hyperconnected world, you may begin to struggle with feeling overwhelmed which can have negative impacts on mental health due to fear of missing out, information overload, and social media pressures. Some negative implications for young adult mental health are anxiety, depression, imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and burnout.
#2 Depression Rooted in Isolation and Comparison
While it is typical to form your sense of identity through understanding the world around you, another long term mental health implication can be depression as a result of comparison culture on social media. Social media increases your ability to view and engage with others that you may not have been exposed to otherwise. In previous generations, only those who were in physical proximity to us were who we had to compare ourselves to and determine how we fit in in a larger society. In more modern times, we have the world at our fingertips and you can begin to compare yourself to others of different class, status, cultures, and lifestyles – which isn’t a fair tradeoff. It is also possible you can find yourself being heavily followed on social media and influencing others based on their perception of you; however you may still feel alone due to lack of real-life support systems. Seeking online validation provides an instant gratification which can temporarily boost self esteem, but it in turn creates an incessant need to have more and more likes to grade your self worth and value in society. If removed, it can feel like a blow to your ego and a loss of sense of self, ultimately causing a major drop in your mood and overall mental health.
#3 Trauma and Identity-Based Stressors
For many members of Gen Z, mental health is deeply shaped by identity-based trauma. Young people navigating issues related to race, gender identity, and sexual orientation often face discrimination, microaggressions, and systemic inequalities that lead to chronic stress and emotional fatigue. The impact of racial trauma, LGBTQ+ stigma, and social exclusion can contribute to heightened levels of anxiety, depression, and complex PTSD. In an era where activism is widespread but support systems may still fall short, therapy offers a safe and affirming space for Gen Z to process their experiences, build resilience, and reclaim their mental well-being.
#4 Burnout from Academic, Work, and Life Pressure
Hustle culture has become more normalized amongst the Gen Z population. Hustle culture refers to the mindset of working to achieve high goals and expectations often with no rest or balance due to a misconception of rest = laziness. With hustle culture, perception is heavily influenced by how much you have achieved which determines your value as an individual. Hustle culture perpetuates negative mental health concerns due to increased burnout, perfectionism, never being ‘good enough’ despite achievements, and productivity guilt. Your inability to shut off these high expectations can cause depression, imposter syndrome, and anxiety due to fatigue and feeling like a failure as a result of prioritizing stress over rest.
#5 Imposter Syndrome and Fear of Not Measuring Up
Imposter syndrome is especially common amongst high achieving Gen Z students and professionals. Imposter syndrome is this overwhelming sensation and belief that you do not belong in a space due to heightened feelings of inadequacy while discrediting the achievements and successes that have brought you to where you are. Moreso, if you struggle with imposter syndrome, you may also have immense fear you will be unable to measure up to others expectations. This fear, self doubt, and uncertainty creates a cycle of overworking and overachieving in an attempt to distract from what you believe are your inadequacies. Imposter syndrome creates a false narrative that increases the likelihood of falling victim to depression and anxiety.
The good news? Therapy is proving to be a powerful tool in helping Gen Z develop emotional resilience, set healthy boundaries, and build meaningful connections.
How Therapy Helps Gen Z Navigate These Challenges
There can be a misconception that therapy is only for those suffering from severe and debilitating mental illness. To the contrary, therapy is also used for skills building and learning to navigate life. Therapy is a safe space for processing difficult emotions and gaining self awareness and understanding. In therapy you will learn coping skills to navigate the challenges outlined above and emotional regulation techniques to assist with those feelings of overwhelm without making situations worse. You will also increase your self worth because you will learn how to set boundaries effectively and redefine success to meet your standards instead of living up to other’s unrealistic expectations.
Start Your Healing Journey Today
At CoreWellness, LLC we offer relatable and culturally competent therapy sessions at affordable rates through our membership services and we accept insurance. Book a free consultation with us today to begin learning more about how we can best support you. If you have questions, you may also contact us by filling out the form below.
