Embedded Files
We’ve all heard the cliche “they grow up so fast” before. Whether it’s a parent celebrating the first steps of their child, or talking about their kid going to high school, or even when lamenting that they’ll eventually move out, the turn of phrase is commonly used by the generations before us. While it has begun to fall out of favor, no generation has fulfilled this cliche better than Gen Z. With 70% of teens reporting signs of anxiety and depression, something has led to young people having to deal with grown-up emotions and problems earlier than previous age groups. So, what factors led us down this path?
Obviously, access to social media has a massive impact on Gen Z. While there are definitely positives like community building and access to information, social media leads to doomscrolling and addiction to screens. The information it does provide can be useful, but it also can cause burnout, sadness, and stress. In addition, being online leads people down paths of bullying, body shaming, and low self esteem. Turns out being able to constantly share an idealized, “perfect” version of yourself instead of the authentic you isn’t healthy!
The world is also a hard place to be in right now. Depressing politics, global pandemics, and higher cost of pretty much everything are a lot for a generation so aware of its surroundings to deal with. Because of the information age we live in, it’s much easier to get overwhelmed by all of the negative aspects of the world. Not to mention the fact that we’re bombarded by all of this knowledge before our frontal lobes are fully developed! All of these factors plus the already difficult task of growing up leads to a whole bunch of sad kids addicted to their phones.
So, what can we do about this? How do we cope with becoming an adult in a world that can be so harsh? Well first and foremost, get a therapist. While therapy doesn’t work for everyone, 75% of people feel it’s beneficial for them. A therapist will help you work through this transition as well as the many other problems that come with living. In addition, practicing active self-care (such as resting, working out, and eating well) leads to better self image and increased mental health. Taking a break from your phone might not be a bad idea either. Getting away from all of the toxic parts of social media will make you happier and healthier. In order to fully process leaving childhood, you have to take care of yourself. Keep moving forward, keep doing the things you love, and keep yourself safe. That’s what being an adult truly means.
Sources:
https://www.mckinsey.com/mhi/our-insights/gen-z-mental-health-the-impact-of-tech-and-social-media
https://www.charliehealth.com/post/fear-of-growing-up
Page updated
Report abuse