Have you ever noticed how much more intense life has become for young people these days? Gen Z, the generation born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, is facing mental health challenges in ways we couldn’t have imagined. As someone who works with many young people in my psychiatric practice, I’ve seen these issues up close.
This isn’t just another generation dealing with life’s usual ups and downs—there’s something deeper going on here. Let’s explore the layers, piece by piece, and maybe it’ll help us understand what Gen Z is really up against.
The Crushing Pressure of Modern Life
Back in the day, life used to have a more predictable rhythm: you studied, worked, and found stability. But today? It’s a different story. For Gen Z in India, pressure is the name of the game. Be it in academics, career expectations, or simply keeping up with societal demands—there’s a constant need to excel. The education system, competitive exams, and parental expectations all create a pressure cooker environment.
And this doesn’t just happen during exam season; it’s ongoing. A 16-year-old once told me, “If I don’t score 95%, I’m a failure. My future will be ruined.” Now imagine having this thought run through your head, day in and day out.
It’s no surprise that anxiety and burnout have become common. The fear of not being good enough, of not meeting impossible standards, is a daily battle.
Social Media: The Double-Edged Sword
Here’s where it gets more complicated. Social media, which has become almost a way of life for Gen Z, brings a mixed bag of emotions. On one hand, it connects people, exposes them to new ideas, and can even foster a sense of belonging. But the dark side? Oh, it’s heavy.
Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat create this constant pressure to be perfect, to look perfect, and to show the world a flawless version of yourself. One patient, a 19-year-old girl, shared with me how she couldn’t go a day without feeling she needed to post the perfect picture: “Everyone looks so happy and successful online. Why don’t I feel the same?”
This endless comparison to unrealistic standards is wreaking havoc on self-esteem and mental well-being. You’re not just keeping up with friends, but also influencers, celebrities, and even strangers. The result? More young people are feeling like they’re not good enough, and it’s feeding into issues like body dysmorphia, depression, and anxiety.
Loneliness in an Overconnected World
What’s shocking is how isolated Gen Z feels despite being so connected. You’d think with social media and smartphones, loneliness wouldn’t be a problem. But in fact, many young people are reporting feeling more isolated than ever. The digital world, while keeping everyone virtually connected, often lacks the emotional depth that face-to-face conversations bring.
I’ve had multiple patients, some as young as 15, tell me they feel disconnected from the world, even though they’re surrounded by people both online and offline. One of them said, “I have hundreds of followers, but I don’t feel like I can talk to anyone about what’s really going on.” That’s a heavy burden to carry, especially when you’re still figuring out who you are.
The Surge in Anxiety and Depression
Let’s be real—words like anxiety, depression, and stress have become part of everyday conversation for Gen Z. It’s almost as if everyone is silently battling their own struggles, and the statistics back this up. In India, more young people are experiencing mental health issues than ever before. Academic stress, family pressure, the uncertainty of the job market, and the constant comparison on social media create a toxic environment.
I’ve had patients come to me with symptoms that are hard to ignore—sleeplessness, panic attacks, and chronic stress. One 18-year-old I treated shared, “I can’t focus anymore. I just feel stuck all the time.” The academic rat race, combined with societal expectations, pushes many Gen Zers to their limits, and many don’t have the emotional tools to cope.
But here’s the kicker: mental health is still a taboo subject in many Indian families. While awareness is growing, there’s still a long way to go. Young adults are often told by well-meaning parents, “It’s all in your head. Just work harder.” This kind of dismissive attitude can prevent them from seeking the help they desperately need.
What Can We Do to Help?
First off, we need to start listening more. Gen Z doesn’t need lectures about “how easy they have it compared to previous generations.” That narrative is damaging and shuts down any meaningful conversation. Instead, they need empathy, guidance, and support.
If you’re a parent, teacher, or even a friend to someone in Gen Z, start by creating a safe space for them to open up. Encourage them to talk about their feelings without judgment. It’s time we normalize conversations about mental health—because asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a step towards healing.
Schools and colleges in India need to do more too. Mental health education should be part of the curriculum, just like physical health. And professional mental health resources should be more accessible, especially in smaller towns and cities where help can be hard to find.
My Take on Gen Z
In my years of practice, I’ve realized that Gen Z isn’t fragile—they’re dealing with pressures and challenges that most of us never had to face. They’re resilient, but they need more mental health resources, less judgment, and more open conversations. And while they’re tech-savvy and globally connected, they still crave the same things all humans need: understanding, acceptance, and love.
Let’s not just dismiss them as the “over-sensitive” generation. Let’s give them the support they need to thrive, not just survive. Together, we can create a future where mental health is taken seriously, and where young people don’t have to fight their battles alone.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, don’t wait to get help. Reach out to a friend, a family member, or a professional. At Mind & Mood Clinic, we specialize in mental health care for young people. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, or any other challenge, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn how we can support you on your journey toward healing and growth.
Disclaimer:
This blog is meant for informational purposes and does not substitute professional advice. If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health issues, please seek help from a qualified mental health professional.
Dr. Rameez Shaikh (MBBS, MD, MIPS) is a consultant Psychiatrist, Sexologist & Psychotherapist in Nagpur and works at Mind & Mood Clinic. He believes that science-based treatment, encompassing spiritual, physical, and mental health, will provide you with the long-lasting knowledge and tool to find happiness and wholeness again.
Dr. Rameez Shaikh, a dedicated psychiatrist , is a beacon of compassion and understanding in the realm of mental health. With a genuine passion for helping others, he combines his extensive knowledge and empathetic approach to create a supportive space for his patients.
