Gen-Z and Anxiety: Why Can't They Avoid It?

People born between 1997 and 2012 are considered the Gen-Z generation. Just like all the generations before, this one has its own unique challenges that they’re being faced with. 

As many of these factors and challenges hit earlier and more severely, this generation is experiencing anxiety at much higher rates. So what is contributing to a mass anxiety that affects a generation as a whole? Here's a deeper look. 

Social Media

If there's anything that can sum up the Gen-Z group, its social media. Over the last decade, there has been an increase in social media platforms and ever-changing ways to engage with them.

The idea behind social media is to increase communication and connection with peers, friends, and family. It should be a means for self-expression and creativity. Unfortunately, it can be really negative and anxiety-inducing for many people, especially within this age group.

Social media paints a picture of unrealistic norms, altered realities, and unachievable goals. Trying to compare their life with what they’re being shown on social media can lead to lower self-esteem, feelings of failure, feelings of missing out on something, and even anxiety and depression. 

Social media also makes bullying much more feasible than ever before. It’s easy to criticize or talk poorly about someone when it’s done from behind a keyboard.  

The "Always-On" Lifestyle

Electronic devices and the internet have created this wonderful world of instant gratification and connectivity that knows no limits. Gen-Z kids were the first generation to have cell phones or similar electronics at a very early age.

Having a world that revolves around being always on can send the brain down a path of anxiety. This group doesn’t know how to relax and shut their brains off. Even worse, they don’t realize the effect that it’s having on their mental health and well-being.

Increased Academic Performance

Over the recent decades, academic performance has carried a heavier weight in what it means to be successful. For this generation, classes are more advanced. There’s an increased pressure to excel. Students are competing for college acceptance spots. 

Add that all to the daily stress of getting good grades, juggling social activities, participating in extracurricular activities, and studying. This pressure from all angles can create a good amount of anxiety. 

Policial Climate

The past couple elections have been a turning point in the political climate. Political parties are becoming more polarized and are threatening many factors in new ways. 

As younger people are being encouraged to get more involved, with that comes a certain level of stress. This generation is now at the voting age and is trying to find their place in the adult voting world. Political conversations are very charged and can make most people anxious, especially younger voters who are not as experienced in life itself. 

Climate Change

The climate crisis is one of those polarized political matters. The younger people falling into Gen-Z are much more aware of the negative impacts of climate change and are more inclined to take action. 

Growing up in an environment that is ever-changing and understanding how ecosystems are being affected can lead to anxiety. Additionally, having to hear or participate in conversations that turn into debates is stressful as well. 

Uncertain Economy and Future

Gen-Z is following in Millennial footsteps when it comes to growing up in an uncertain economy. Most Millennials experienced the economic collapse while in their late teens and early 20’s. Ge- Z has grown up with this being their norm.

While they’re trying to find their identity, they’re being faced with inflation, job limitations and uncertainties, financial crises, and limited resources. Navigating this new world during the pandemic and afterwards has led to increased anxiety. 

There are many different factors contributing to Gen-Z anxiety. It may seem impossible to avoid or escape. If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, contact us to learn about managing any associated symptoms with anxiety therapy.