Gen Z is reporting higher levels of depression and anxiety than past generations, but experts are divided on what’s really happening. On one side, statistics show concerning spikes in major depressive episodes, hopelessness, and self-harm among this gen, with some researchers pointing to smartphones, social media, and economic stress as root causes. However, Gen Z is also the first generation to talk so openly about their emotions following Millennials breaking the ice—bringing therapy, burnout, and anxiety into everyday conversations and online spaces where older generations stayed silent. This makes it hard to tell whether the numbers reflect a genuine rise in illness or simply a cultural shift toward honesty. YPulse data reflects an interesting tension between their values and personal struggles, too: while 83% of 13-39-year-olds believe no one should feel ashamed for asking for help, many still find it difficult to speak up themselves. The truth likely lies in the middle—Gen Z is navigating new pressures while also rewriting the rules about vulnerability, making mental health struggles more visible than ever. (Relevant)
👀 Read more from YPulse: Gen Z’s 10 Biggest Sources of Anxiety, In Their Own Words
