GenZ & Me
Bridging the Gap Between Generations
About this podcast:
I want to explore and understand GenZ culture through insightful conversations and relatable stories that connect with my millennial experiences.
#3 - GenZ's New Take on Mental Health
In this episode, we dive into how GenZ is reshaping the conversation around mental health and wellness. Join us as we explore the impact of social media, the importance of vulnerability, and the rise of self-care practices that prioritize holistic well-being.
This episode is based on the following sources:
YouTube Videos (5)
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Why Gen Z Spends to Escape Anxiety | The Psychology Behind Doom SpendingFound by Maya Garcia
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Understanding Generation Z Mental Health Insights from 'The Anxious Generation'Found by Maya Garcia
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The Gen Z Mental Health Truth (Why We're All Depressed)Found by Maya Garcia
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Why Gen Z Has the Poorest Mental Health of Any GenerationFound by Maya Garcia
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“Gen Z and Mental Health: Insights for Faith Leaders” - Ep. 115 ft. Josh PackardFound by Maya Garcia
Reddit Discussions (4)
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SM does harm mental health but it's not the full picture (it's schools too).Found by Maya Garcia
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Can’t help but wonder if Gen-z is grappling with a generational curse on mental healthFound by Maya Garcia
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Social media is a mental health trap.Found by Maya Garcia
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thoughts on taking mental health days?Found by Maya Garcia
In this episode of "GenZ & Me - Bridging the Gap Between Generations," hosts Maya Garcia and Jacob Lin explore how GenZ is reshaping the conversation around mental health. They discuss the dual role of social media, GenZ's openness about mental health, and innovative coping strategies that this generation is adopting. These discussions highlight the ways in which GenZ is challenging societal norms and creating new paths for mental well-being.
📱 How has social media uniquely influenced GenZ's mental well-being?
Social media plays a complex role in the mental well-being of GenZ, acting as both a source of stress and a support network. On one hand, platforms like Instagram and TikTok can amplify feelings of inadequacy and anxiety, as discussed in this Reddit post. However, they also provide spaces for community and validation, enabling GenZ to connect with others who share similar experiences. The constant flow of information can be overwhelming, but many GenZers are learning to manage this by reducing screen time and engaging in more productive activities, as noted in personal stories shared on Reddit.
🌍 How does GenZ's openness about mental health impact societal norms?
GenZ's unprecedented openness about mental health is significantly impacting societal norms by normalizing conversations and reducing stigma. Unlike previous generations, who may have viewed therapy with skepticism, GenZ is more proactive about seeking help. As highlighted in an article from Pacific Oaks, two out of five GenZers are in regular therapy, indicating a cultural shift towards healthier practices. This openness has led to the normalization of mental health days and broader societal dialogues, fostering more inclusive spaces for conversation and understanding.
🧘 What innovative coping mechanisms and support systems is GenZ adopting?
GenZ is adopting various innovative coping mechanisms and support systems to manage stress and anxiety. One such method is 'doom spending,' a practice where individuals seek control through spending, which is explored in this Everyday Mind video. However, recognizing the limitations of such habits, many are shifting towards healthier alternatives like digital detoxes and engaging in community dialogues. By stepping back from screens and participating in supportive networks, GenZ is crafting new ways to reclaim mental clarity and foster community engagement, as discussed by Josh Packard. These strategies highlight the generation's self-awareness and commitment to mental well-being.
YouTube Videos
Why Gen Z Spends to Escape Anxiety | The Psychology Behind Doom Spending
The video examines why Gen Z turns to 'doom spending' as a coping mechanism for anxiety and stress.
Notable quotes:
"Doom spending is a manifestation of seeking control in an uncontrollable world."
Provides a unique angle on coping mechanisms, enriching the podcast discussion.
Understanding Generation Z Mental Health Insights from 'The Anxious Generation'
Explores insights from the book 'The Anxious Generation', providing a detailed look at how Gen Z copes with anxiety and stress.
Notable quotes:
"Gen Z's anxiety is shaped by an unprecedented access to information, creating constant stimulation and stress."
Highlights how information overload affects mental health.
The Gen Z Mental Health Truth (Why We're All Depressed)
An analysis on why Gen Z reports higher rates of depression and anxiety, focusing on technology's impact on social interactions.
Notable quotes:
"Social media amplifies feelings of inadequacy amongst Gen Z, driving anxiety and depression."
Relevant for addressing the impact of social media on well-being.
Why Gen Z Has the Poorest Mental Health of Any Generation
Dr. Josh Axe explores the reasons behind Gen Z's declining mental health, including societal pressures and digital age challenges.
Notable quotes:
"The digital era has created an environment where Gen Z faces overwhelming pressures virtually unknown to previous generations."
Useful for discussing the influence of technology on mental health.
“Gen Z and Mental Health: Insights for Faith Leaders” - Ep. 115 ft. Josh Packard
Josh Packard discusses the unique mental health challenges Gen Z faces and how faith leaders can support them, focusing on community and understanding.
Notable quotes:
"Gen Z is more open about mental health struggles than previous generations, creating opportunities for deeper community engagement."
Highlights the openness of Gen Z, paving the way for authentic discussions in the podcast.
Reddit Discussions
SM does harm mental health but it's not the full picture (it's schools too).
Discussion in r/GenZ
Community voices:
"It’s social media that’s been a compounding factor and pushed the stresses of adolescence to all new levels."
Explores external factors in mental health beyond social media. Relevant for discussing a holistic view of stressors affecting GenZ.
Can’t help but wonder if Gen-z is grappling with a generational curse on mental health
Discussion in r/mentalhealth
Community voices:
"Short answer: yes, previous generations did struggle with the same things. In many ways, the older you are, the more likely you are to simply repress these feelings instead of even acknowledge them."
Facilitates discussion on the progress society has made in dealing with mental health openly.
"Mental health issues have always been around, people just used to deal with them with alcohol/drugs/violence."
Provides historical context on how mental health challenges and coping mechanisms have changed over time.
Social media is a mental health trap.
Discussion in r/GenZ
Community voices:
"It took me to my lowest point to stop. I know too well how tight the grip this content or social media can have on a person."
Powerful story about overcoming addiction-like habits with social media. Can resonate with GenZ listeners facing similar struggles.
"I won't lie I still have and do use social media such as Tick Tock. But not in the binge and mindless way I used to. I've filled that time with more productive activities and healthier choices."
Offers a personal anecdote on reclaiming mental space from social media. Can encourage listeners to take actionable steps.
thoughts on taking mental health days?
Discussion in r/GenZ
Community voices:
"I generally agree with the sentiment that we have it easier than our ancestors, but taking a day off for yourself (if permitted) has been around since the dawn of labor."
Places GenZ's mental health practices in the context of historical labor practices. Useful for discussing how mental health definitions have evolved.
"Mental health days are fine but it’s really not worth it to tell the older generations why you’re taking a day off lol."
Highlights the generational gap in understanding mental health needs. Could spark a conversation on how GenZ handles mental health differently.
Articles & Blog Posts
Gen Z Takes on Mental Health
The article features a GenZ teenager discussing mental health challenges and perceptions. It highlights the importance of validating young people's feelings and the detrimental effects of dismissive attitudes from adults.
Key insights:
"'Depression can be experienced as emotional or emotionless.'"
Used to explain the nuanced ways depression manifests, emphasizing empathy and understanding.
"'Telling teens things like 'there are people in this world with bigger issues' makes them feel worse.'"
Can be used to discuss the importance of validating youth experiences.
Gen Z’s View on Therapy and Mental Health
Examines GenZ's proactive stance on mental health, highlighting their openness to therapy and the increased demand for mental health services. It also discusses the role of technology and online therapy platforms in providing accessible mental health care.
Key insights:
"'Two out of five Gen Zers surveyed go to regular therapy.'"
Illustrates changing cultural norms around mental health care.
"'Gen Z is the most depressed and anxious when compared with other generations.'"
Can set the tone for discussions on why this generation faces unique mental health challenges.
Generation Z's Mental Health Issues
This article discusses the mental health crisis among GenZ, providing statistics on anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges they face uniquely compared to other generations. It highlights the societal factors contributing to these challenges and emphasizes the openness of GenZ to discuss and seek help for mental health issues.
Key insights:
"'Gen Z has been exceptionally open about sharing their struggles.'"
Useful for illustrating a shift in cultural norms regarding openness and vulnerability.
"'75% of mental illnesses emerge between ages 10 and 24.'"
Can be used to stress the urgency of addressing mental health issues early and supporting interventions during these years.
"'There is no health without mental health.'"
It's a strong assertion relevant for emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness in discussions.