Gen Z gets stereotyped for a lot of different reasons, but if you’re a part of that generation, you probably know that so many of those tropes aren’t true. In fact, what most people don’t realize is that many Gen Zers struggle with anxiety.

Sound familiar?

Anxiety has become so normalized with Gen Z that you’ll probably be hard-pressed to find someone in the generation who doesn’t deal with it on some level. But, why? Why are younger generations seemingly so more susceptible to anxiety, and what does it mean for your future?

There are many factors that can play into the anxiety impacting Gen Z. If you’re a part of this generation and tend to struggle with anxious thoughts and feelings, understanding the “why” can be the first step in fighting back.

An Overload of Information

One reason for so much anxiety within this generation is that there can often feel like a constant state of worry from all of the information you’re receiving. You’ve grown up in a world where the Internet and social media have pretty much always been the norm. So, it’s easier for you to feel immersed in those things than past generations.

Unfortunately, when you can’t escape such things, you also can’t escape the information that comes with them. What’s worse — the news isn’t always great. Things like mass shootings, wildfires, climate change issues, and social unrest are just a few of the things flooding the news nowadays. While it’s important to stay informed, being constantly reminded of such things can start to feel overwhelming and make you anxious.

A Lack of Personal Space

Because we live in such a fast-paced, tech-forward world, it can feel hard to “get away” for a while. Even if you’re able to put down your phone and turn off your computer, you might feel like you don’t have a personal space you can call your own to relax.

The cost of living is getting higher. Affordable housing isn’t a reality for so many in this young generation, especially when wages don’t match the cost of living.

When you feel like you don’t have a place you can go to experience rest and solitude, it can make you even more anxious, as though there’s no escape from the chaos around you.

Influencer Culture

To say we’re living in an “influencer era” would be an understatement. It’s easy for almost anyone to become an Internet celebrity and gain thousands of fans and followers.

While influencers aren’t inherently bad, and sometimes offer good advice and products, they’ve also created a shift in how people see themselves and their lives. Social media does this, too. You might feel pressured to start comparing yourself to the lifestyles you see online.

Maybe your favorite influencer has a beautifully decorated home. Maybe they look flawless every time they’re on your screen. Or, maybe a friend or family member looks like they have a perfect life whenever they post on social media, and it makes you feel down about your own situation.

Keep in mind that you don’t know what’s going on behind the scenes. Social media is a highlight reel of people’s lives, and influencers are getting paid to look good and appear like their lives are perfect.

What Can You Do?

Anxiety can threaten to take over your life. But, there are many things you can do to fight back. Start by making self-care a priority. That might include putting down your phone or going through a digital detox for a while. Additionally, simple things like getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising can help.

Don’t feel like you have to tackle anxiety on your own. Lean on your support system for help. Open up about your feelings. If you’re still struggling, consider reaching out to us. Anxiety therapy can help you better understand the root of your anxiety while offering effective solutions for overcoming it.

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