Born between the mid-1990s and to early-2010, Gen Z is known for their adaptability and resilience. Growing up in an evolving world with economic instability and shifting preferences is difficult. It makes the generation feel overwhelmed and uncertain about the future. It is the reason many individuals belonging to this generation struggle to find a life purpose. They continuously find themselves in a competitive state and confusion. It leads to anger issues, depression and anxiety.

One of the most important things that Gen Z can do is prioritise mental health. Ensure a good sleep cycle, eat healthy, and exercise often. Simple workout sessions prove helpful in releasing excessive anxious thoughts. Additionally, they help you know your purpose and focus on what matters.

The blog lists other ways to deal with anxiety and depression issues for Gen Z individuals. However, let’s first understand the primary causes of depression in Gen Z.

Why do 70% of Gen Z feel depressed? 

Gen Z in this world found themselves low, worked up and exhausted. People biologically witness a dip in happy hormones when experiencing burnout, anxiety or depression. They do not feel like doing anything or convincing anyone. Other reasons contributing to depression in Gen Z include:

a) Bullying, peer pressure or lack of support

Around 14% of adolescents face adjustment issues, poor academic performance and no emotional support. Friends and family are a critical part of Gen Z’s world. Withdrawn or estrangement from them makes them feel discarded.

b) Gadget and social media addiction

It is one of the primary causes of Gen Z depression. 89% of individuals are addicted to using smartphones over 12 hours a day. Sharing life updates on social media and live updates makes the most of their day. It begets FOMO in the generation. They feel like missing out on something big. This makes them anxious.

c) Global pandemic

Encountering something like a pandemic is not easy for any generation. Gen Z, being new to such a world tumult, struggles to cope with life’s existence.

How to combat stress and anxiety issues as Zen Z?

Dealing with anxiety issues is possible by combating your habits. Create habits that nurture your well-being are peaceful, and help you grow. Here are some ways to deal with mental health issues as Gen Z:

1) Unplug from the world for sometime

Unplugging and spending more time with yourself is important. It grants the needed peace to your well-being. Additionally, reducing or cutting your time on social media releases unnecessary pressure from your mind. It helps you concentrate on aspects that matter more.

For example, if your entrance to the most anticipated university is approaching, deactivating social media may help. You can dedicate more time to working on your dream and achieving it. Eventually, it will be more fulfilling. Similarly, list out things that lie ahead of you and matter the most. Life will make sense, then.

2) Improve your sleep routine

An ideal sleeping routine or schedule includes going to bed at the right time. Most Gen Z individuals face a hard time hitting the bed. They could not sleep until midnight and woke up late.

It impacts the sleep cycle and causes headaches and a passive mental state. Instead, one must leave the smartphone or other devices an hour before sleep. It helps you meditate and concentrate on life aspects. However, it does relate to overthinking. Prioritise positive and healthy thoughts that are critical for your mental progress. Meditation is the best way to do so.

3) Make real-life social connections

In the age of swiping right and left, it is high time to make some tangible connections. According to expert studies, “individuals with childhood friends, community friends and colleagues share low chances of developing depression”. Additionally, such individuals recover quickly.

4) Consult a therapist for quick recovery

One of the best parts of Gen Z is that they are open about discussing mental health issues. This is remarkable compared to other generations facing similar issues. Zen Z explores therapists on platforms like LinkedIn and Reddit or by developing applications.

However, around 63% of individuals cannot afford it. Costs are high despite the insurance coverage.

It proves the biggest barrier to seeking instant help for mental issues. If this is you and cannot finance the fee, check external facilities. Some financial options do not require your parent’s consent or guarantee. Instead, you can finance the fee individually with your earnings.

For example- financial tools like 12-month loans with no guarantor requirement may help you. It grants you the peace of getting instant cash without third-party involvement. Discussing mental issues with guardians is still a stigma for most students. However, such instant cash facilities drop barriers and help one with personalised solutions.

12-month repayment period ensures comfortable financial management. You can pay the dues in easy monthly instalments without skipping. Alternatively, contact the provider quickly if you cannot afford the dues. He may help you with a different repayment structure that supports your budget.

It is the quickest way to contact and finance a therapist fee.

Research and explore the best therapist by checking the ratings. Contact the close friends for recommendations. Connect immediately and seek a solution. A therapist may guide you through the best ways to deal with the trauma and medications.

5) Invest time in activities you love

Sometimes, a break from social media and other connections helps mentally. It reduces the anxieties attached, helps focus better and re-think possibilities. Deactivate social media accounts by informing your loved ones about it.

Doing so for a week will help you reduce the usage, control the urge to use it often and think positively. Instead, utilise the time for some productive things. It could be one of your hobbies that you have not tapped for long.

It could be composing poems, playing guitar, reading, or solving puzzles. Invest time in activities that balance your mindset, release stress, and encourage you. Moreover, it spares you more time to plan big events that lie ahead—like preparing for seminars, scholarship examinations, etc. Eventually, you will feel better, and depression will slow down.

6) Spend more time in nature

Nature is the healer of all anxieties, depression, and anger issues. It helps you heal from within. Practising Yoga, Meditation, and breathing exercises in an open area works better. It enables you to become conscious of your surroundings. It helps release the lead-up negative and pressing thoughts. It replaces negativity with positivity and peace. Sitting idle for 15-20 minutes helps feel the breeze. It wakes up consciousness critical for self-improvement.

Meditation does not only relate to peaceful sitting. You can also play your favourite outdoor game, for example- badminton. Outdoor activities like playing, walking, running, and exercises balance mind and body. It helps you feel rejuvenated for the day.

7) Find a sense of purpose in life

Having a purpose correlates with active engagement. For example- to be a successful tech entrepreneur, analyse your needs. Do you have the qualities that make you one? What changes you must bring about in yourself and your lifestyle?

Does it mean more skill upliftment? Regardless of the goal, having something to look up to creates a sense of purpose in life. Engaging actively towards your goals helps you ditch unhealthy habits. It makes you more conscious, mature, and practical about things.

Bottom line

Gen Z is more vulnerable to depression and anxiety issues than other generations. However, growing awareness, research and treatment may prove helpful. Mental health professionals may make a difference to all this with personalised guidance and constant support.  Sometimes, individuals need- a listener. Find people who care about your whereabouts and discuss. It will help you recover quickly.