Why Is Generation Z So Anxious? Understanding and Supporting the Mental Health of Teens and Young Adults
Anxiety is one of the most common mental health challenges facing Generation Z—today's adolescents and college students. As therapists, parents, and educators, it's crucial that we understand not just that Gen Z is anxious, but why—and what we can do to support them.
The Rise of Anxiety in Gen Z
Born between 1997 and 2012, Gen Z has grown up in a world that’s felt anything but stable. Unlike previous generations, they've been shaped by a nearly constant stream of global and social crises:
School shootings, climate change, and political unrest are part of their earliest memories.
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted their education, social lives, and developmental milestones.
Many have never experienced a sense of true safety or predictability—critical components for emotional regulation and growth.
This constant exposure to high-stress events has created an environment of chronic uncertainty, which is a known trigger for anxiety in young people.
The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
As the first fully digital generation, Gen Z spends a significant portion of their lives online. While technology offers connection and convenience, it also contributes to:
Comparison and perfectionism: Curated feeds can lead to unrealistic expectations about body image, success, and social life.
Cyberbullying and digital harassment
Sleep disruption due to late-night scrolling
“Always on” pressure to respond, post, and perform
These digital dynamics can significantly increase stress levels, making adolescents and college students more vulnerable to anxiety and depression.
Academic Pressure and Career Anxiety
The current generation of students is under more pressure than ever:
Competitive college admissions and high academic standards
Concerns about job security in a rapidly changing economy
Financial stress and student loan worries
This pressure often manifests as performance anxiety, burnout, and difficulty managing day-to-day stress.
Mental Health Awareness—But Not Always Access
Gen Z is remarkably open about mental health. They’re more likely to talk about anxiety, seek information, and recognize when something doesn’t feel right. But this awareness isn’t always matched with access to support.
Many young people:
Feel overwhelmed navigating how to get help
Face long waitlists for therapy services
Struggle with self-diagnosis and information overload online
The Importance of Anxiety Treatment for Adolescents and College Students
Early intervention is key. With the right support, young people can build emotional resilience, learn coping skills, and feel empowered to manage their anxiety.
At Fairfield Counseling Center, we specialize in anxiety treatment for teens and college students. Our therapists provide evidence-based care tailored to the unique challenges Gen Z faces. Whether your child is struggling with school stress, social anxiety, or overwhelming worry, we’re here to help them regain a sense of calm, confidence, and control.
Looking for Therapy for Anxiety in Adolescents or College Students?
Fairfield Counseling Center offers compassionate, personalized therapy for teens and young adults in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. We help clients:
Manage anxiety and panic
Build healthy coping skills
Navigate school, work, and life transitions
Improve relationships and communication
Reduce the impact of stress and social media
👉 Ready to get started? Contact Fairfield Counseling Center today to schedule an appointment or learn more about anxiety treatment for adolescents and college students.