The Rising Stress Levels Among Generation Z

While every generation faces its own set of challenges, Generation Z (individuals born from the mid-1990s onward) is grappling with unique issues during a critical phase of emotional growth, leading to heightened stress levels. Studies suggest they experience significantly more stress compared to older generations.

In October, the American Psychological Association (APA) published its 12th annual Stress in America survey, based on data collected in August 2018. The study included responses from nearly 3,500 adults aged 18 and above, along with 300 teenagers aged 15 to 17.

The study revealed that 27% of Gen Z individuals rated their mental health as poor, significantly higher than Millennials (15%), Gen Xers (13%), and Baby Boomers (7%). Additionally, 90% of Gen Z members aged 18 to 21 reported experiencing physical or emotional stress symptoms, such as sadness, lack of motivation, or anxiety. On a positive note, Gen Z is more likely than other generations to seek professional mental health treatment or therapy.

"This marks the first time we've captured Gen Z's perspectives, and our findings highlight that prominent national issues like mass shootings and sexual harassment are major stressors for this generation," explains Lynn Bufka, PhD., Associate Executive Director of Practice Research and Policy at the APA, in an email interview.

The Biggest Issues for Gen Z

What causes the most stress for Gen Z? The report categorized stressors into national and personal issues. Top national stressors included mass shootings, rising suicide rates, and global warming/climate change. Notably, 75% of Gen Z respondents identified mass shootings as a major stressor, compared to 62% of adults overall.

This sentiment was echoed in conversations with Gen Z members. Jenna Scott, a 19-year-old college student from Utah who grew up in Las Vegas, shared that the 2017 Route 91 Harvest Festival, the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history, deeply impacted her. "Mass shootings stress me out because one happened so close to home," she said via email. "I wasn’t there, but it’s terrifying to think it happened right where I’m from."

Sisters Kalieann Wetherington (17) and Amelia (15) from Kennesaw, Georgia, recognize the threat of school violence, though it doesn’t consume their daily lives. "After such incidents, it becomes terrifying. We practice drills and discuss it in class," Amelia shares. "Teachers often mention, 'We never had to do this when we were in school.' It’s unsettling to realize how prevalent this issue has become." Still, she adds, "On most days, it’s not something that weighs on my mind."

"Right after hearing about a major shooting, I start worrying and thinking about what I’d do or where I’d go," explains Kalieann. "But on a typical day at school, I’m not concerned—I’m focused on my studies."

Personal Issues

Certain challenges appear universal across generations. Work and financial concerns topped the list of personal stressors for all adults, and Gen Z is no exception. However, 77% of Gen Z cited work and 81% cited money as stressors, compared to 64% of adults overall for both.

While the Wetherington sisters don’t face these specific worries, they still feel the pressure of preparing for their futures. "I’m really anxious about getting into my desired college," says Kalieann. "It feels increasingly competitive, so I believe I need to excel, take more AP classes, and stay involved." She’s currently juggling six advanced placement classes, community service, and sports.

Amelia follows a similar trajectory as her sister, brimming with ambition but struggling to fit everything into her schedule. As a club volleyball player, she aims to secure both academic and athletic scholarships in a few years. This often leads to sacrificing sleep. "Some nights I only get four or five hours of sleep on a good day," she admits. "This results in dozing off in class, napping in the car, and definitely impacting other areas of my life."

Coping With Stress

The APA's Bufka notes that it’s challenging to determine whether Gen Z’s higher stress levels stem from unique circumstances or their youth, as the same individuals weren’t surveyed at different life stages.

"We believe it’s possible that older individuals, having more life experience, have developed better coping mechanisms for stress and unexpected challenges. This is a natural part of growing up," she explains. "Additionally, some stressors today, like social media, didn’t exist when older generations were young. While social media offers support for Gen Z, 45% say it makes them feel judged. The key is teaching everyone healthy ways to manage stress."

To address this, she advises people of all ages to set boundaries to avoid becoming overwhelmed by issues beyond their control. "Staying informed is crucial, but it’s equally important to limit exposure to news and social media, especially if it’s hard to disconnect from the constant flow of information," she says. "The way issues are portrayed in media and online can amplify stress, so taking a 'digital detox' or reducing social media engagement is perfectly fine."

If concerns about national or global issues leave you feeling helpless, she recommends engaging with your local community. "Directing your anxiety and frustrations into productive actions or initiatives that address your concerns can make you feel empowered to make a difference in challenging situations," she advises.

She emphasizes that while stress is a natural part of life, unmanaged stress can negatively impact your well-being. "Prioritize self-care by ensuring adequate sleep, eating nutritious meals, staying physically active, and seeking or offering social support. Additionally, engage in activities that bring you joy, such as exercising, listening to music, meditating, or spending quality time with loved ones."