Podcasts are a form of mental health care for young consumers—and they’re listening more than ever before. 

Podcasts are a form of mental health care for young consumers—and they’re listening more than ever before. YPusle’s TV and Entertainment report data shows that roughly a third of Gen Z and Millennials are tuning into podcasts weekly or more. According to a Pandora Soundboard Study of users 18 and older, “Nearly half (48%) of self-help podcast listeners and 42% of health podcast listeners are spending more time with their favorite shows than they were a year ago.” Over the pandemic, young people were looking for connection, and many who went without direct access to mental health professionals or support groups turned to wellness products to fill the void. An SXM Media study shows that “Gen Z is embracing podcasts, especially creators, with 44% saying they find podcast hosts to be relatable and authentic, and 42% saying they trust and value the opinions of the hosts they listen to.” (Adweek)