More and more young people from Generation Z say they feel lonely, anxious and uncertain about the future, and experts point out that the problem is not just an individual one, but a global phenomenon.
Young people born between 1997 and 2012 are the generation that most often reports mental health problems, but also the most digitally connected in history, according to the latest research.
International studies reveal that almost 60% of Generation Z youth say they frequently feel lonely. A Gallup report shows that the level of loneliness among young people is higher than in any other age group. The pandemic, social media pressure and economic uncertainty have accentuated this phenomenon.
Data from the World Health Organization show that nearly one in seven adolescents globally suffers from some form of mental disorder. In Europe, anxiety and depression are among the most commonly reported problems among young people.
In Romania, studies by youth organizations indicate that over 40% of teenagers say they feel stressed or overwhelmed by the pressure of the future.
“Generation Z is the first generation raised entirely in the digital age. Young people spend, on average, more than 4-5 hours a day on social networks, according to international analyses. While these platforms facilitate communication, researchers say they can amplify social comparisons, anxiety and feelings of isolation. In addition to emotional problems, young people also face economic uncertainties. In the European Union, the youth unemployment rate is around 14-15%, almost double the overall average. In Romania, many young people say that the main fears are finding a stable job, the cost of housing and economic instability”shows TVR Info.
Experts recommend that adults listen more, avoid judgment and talk honestly about their own difficulties, not just success. Young people need to hear that uncertainty is normal and that previous generations have gone through similar times. Emotional support and genuine dialogue can make a big difference in how young people build their confidence in the future.
