Born between 1997 and 2012, the Generation Z has seen a notable rise in anxiety levels. This report aims not only to demonstrate the increasing anxiety of young people, but also calls for a radical investigation into the root causes of these anxieties since with here emphasis on outcomes we oak to ensure their mental well-being. From social media pressures to abstract macrocosmic changes, there are many reasons that anxiety levels are especially high among the Z.
The Fall of Social Media
One of the world’s top mental health problems is social media outlets for Gen Z. This encourages young people to communicate with their peers and view themselves in unique ways, such as manufacturer single image of themselves in multiple forms mass beats covered resting on palms like snow cakes at winter festivity flanked “Very comfortable” with enacting arrival at five-star resorts as an inevitable corollary; life as seen through rose-colored glasses depending upon your echo. “Media often presents an artificial reality,” says psychologist Gail Wiseman. “The louder transmitted messages are, the more they press against our nervous system” (Wise 1995). Along similar lines, a business school professor has found that the more people use Facebook, Twitter or other social networks “the less life satisfaction and happiness they have.” Social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat and Tik Tok produce a glossy version of how the new.
While social media might create an impression of closeness, it also provides people with misleading information about looks and ability. Not everybody can succeed and be beautiful according to the standards of social media. Best of all, being outside work is not an option; it’s expected that you work all hours. According to a survey by BBVA, students who frequently use social media suffer from “serious depression” and anxiety. Prone thus to “compare lives” with the beguilingly embossed selves/profiles crafted out as art online can lead people into feelings of inferiority and depression. Then in addition the fear of missing out (FOMO) only serves to compound these negative emotions, starting an anxiety cycle that is hard to free oneself from.
Economic and Environmental Feelings of Unease
Increasing economic uncertainty is one of the main reasons for Generation Z’s higher anxiety levels these days. The labor market today is more competitive and unpredictable than ever for many young people. With student loan debt and increased living costs, this combination adds a financial fall-back position.
In addition, Generation Z is highly sensitive to global policy isn’t of purpose and other current events around the world. The constant, sad news can make people feel powerless and anxious. According to a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, 70% of Generation Z members say they are worried about Earth’s future. Strong attention to the immediate problems can cause tremendous impact to mental health, leading persistent stress and anxiety.
Pressure in Academia
The stress of academic performance is another big burden for Generation Z students today. As competition for college spots and scholarships becomes increasingly intense, a heavy psychological pressure is laid upon the students. The pressure of high scores, participation in extracurricular activities and building an impressive résumé can lead to burnout and anxiety.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, teenagers who feel academic stress have a much greater chance of developing an anxiety disorder. The perpetual feeling that you need to be doing well causes stress and exhaustion.
The Effect of Isolation
The COVID-19 pandemic has made the mental state of Generation Z kids worse-that much we know. Lockdowns, social distancing and the switch to remote learning have all added to the sense of isolation felt by many. Some young people say that they feel cut off from their peers, which only adds to their sense of anxiety and depression.
A survey by the CDC found that anxiety or depression symptoms were reported by nearly 25% of 18-24 year olds since the pandemic started. The sudden and drastic changes to daily life, combined with the loss of face-to-face social interaction, have been difficult for many young people to adjust to.
Seeking Solutions
We do not have to continue this trend towards anxiety. Paradoxically, whether due to or in spite of its extraordinarily high prevalence there are things we can do for the mental health of young people. Ending the stigma surrounding mental illness and encouraging people to seek help begin with open conversations about mental health.
If our educational institutions want to succeed in the 21st century, mental health resources and support systems need to be added to the gym, library and all the rest. So that staff are able not only relieve their tension physically but also do a good job of looking after their mental health, in both the short and long term, is something that will best serve both companies workers alike.
How we use technology also has much to do with our mental health. Encouraging mindfulness in social networking such as Facebook and, if we may go so far as to call for times when you will get off the web altogether; helps redress the balance of life which life is so unprocessed now and mostly lived on-line.
Conclusion
The problem of anxiety among Generation Z is multi-dimensional, including stresses brought on by social media, economic uncertainties, academic pressures and a repercussion of the COVID-19 pandemic which is still being felt now. Dealing with these problems will require a concerted effort by individuals, families, schools and society at large. Perhaps if Generation Z can dissipate its anxieties, put an atmosphere of well-being around its painful childhood and adolescence…