Gen Z has often been labeled as the most anxious generation, and according to YPulse’s Mental Health report, that perception isn’t entirely far-fetched. Today, 76% of 13-24-year-olds say they feel anxious about the future—a number that has actually increased from 71% in 2022. For a gen that came of age during a pandemic, economic uncertainty, and a non-stop feeling of “doom” thanks to social media, stress has become more of a constant backdrop in Gen Z’s lives than an occasional feeling. And while Gen Z is still turning to more familiar wellness habits to manage that stress—YPulse data shows 13-24-year-olds have spent the past year starting new workout routines, taking mental health days, and stepping away from social media to combat anxiety—they’re also exploring alternative ways to cope, too.  Part of this shift likely comes from how normalized mental health conversations have become for young people online. On top of talking openly about stress, Gen Z has been watching creators actively swap recommendations, routines, and coping mechanisms across social media. That openness has created an environment where alternative approaches to managing anxiety feel more mainstream and accessible than they may have for previous gens.   These changing approaches to stress...