Gen Z Mental Health in the Workplace and the Need for Support

As Generation Z (Gen Z) enters the workforce, employers must adapt to the unique challenges and expectations of this new cohort. Gen Z places a strong emphasis on mental health, not as a peripheral concern but as a core element of their overall well-being and work experience. However, their expectations differ significantly from those of previous generations, necessitating a proactive, integrated approach to mental health, rather than fragmented, reactive solutions.

Recent studies reveal a broad consensus across generational lines that mental health issues among young people have worsened. According to a survey by the Policy Institute at King’s College London and Orygen Institute, a majority of the UK public, spanning Baby Boomers to Gen Z, agree that mental health challenges are more prevalent among today’s youth. However, while there is consensus on the growing severity, there are significant differences in how these generations view the causes and implications.

A Shift Towards Proactive Support: Gen Z’s Mental Health Priorities

For Gen Z, mental health is an essential aspect of their work-life balance. This generation has grown up with constant connectivity, digital pressures, and a rapidly changing economic landscape. As a result, they have a nuanced understanding of mental health challenges, attributing their struggles to a complex mix of societal, economic, and digital factors.

In a recent UK survey, 74% of Gen Z respondents reported that mental health was worse for young people today compared to previous generations. This aligns with their broader concerns about economic instability, rising living costs, and job insecurity. According to the same survey, 36% of Gen Z believe that the increasing cost of living is a major factor driving mental health issues among their peers—significantly higher than older generations. These economic pressures contribute to heightened stress, anxiety, and depression, making mental health a pressing concern for today’s young workforce.

The Role of Social Media and Technology: A Nuanced Perspective

When it comes to social media’s impact, Gen Z views its effects with a more nuanced perspective. While older generations attribute rising mental health problems to increased social media use, Gen Z is less likely to hold it solely responsible. Only 51% of Gen Z respondents think social media is a key driver, compared to 65% of older generations. Instead, Gen Z points to a broader range of factors, including economic challenges, job uncertainty, and social pressures exacerbated by technology.

However, while they acknowledge the negative impacts of social media—such as anxiety, depression, and body image issues—Gen Z also recognizes the positive aspects. Approximately 60% of Gen Z say that social media helps with self-expression, and 46% feel it enhances community building. These views suggest that Gen Z sees social media as a tool that can support their mental health, if used correctly, but also recognizes the potential for harm if not managed properly.

Meeting Gen Z’s Mental Health Needs: Building a Supportive Workplace Culture with Personalized Support

The key to supporting Gen Z’s mental health in the workplace lies in providing proactive, integrated solutions that address both individual and collective well-being. Gen Z does not want to navigate a fragmented system where they are expected to seek out various resources. Instead, they expect a streamlined, supportive work environment that integrates mental health into the daily experience.

A proactive approach means focusing on early detection and intervention rather than reacting to crises. Companies should look for signs of stress, burnout, and anxiety early on. This could involve regular well-being check-ins, stress management programs, and easily accessible mental health resources embedded into the workday. Cutting-edge AI technology and AI-driven solutions can play a crucial role here, identifying potential mental health risks early and offering personalized support. Corporate health initiatives, such as AI-powered wellness tools, can be seamlessly integrated, improving engagement and satisfaction.

AI-Driven Corporate Well-being Solutions: Addressing Mental Health Challenges with Technology

Recent research highlights generational differences in attitudes toward mental health. A study by the Orygen Institute found that nearly half of the public believes mental health problems among young people have increased due to difficult circumstances like economic uncertainty and job insecurity. Gen Z is more likely to attribute the rise in mental health challenges to these external factors.

Moreover, Gen Z is more attuned to the need for mental health support in the workplace, advocating for stronger policies around mental health services. This highlights the growing demand for employers to take a more active role in fostering a supportive workplace culture. By leveraging AI and well-being solutions, companies can offer personalized, anticipatory support.

Gen Z wants holistic workplace programs that are easy to access. They expect companies to take responsibility for their mental well-being by offering a unified platform that provides tailored support. Companies that invest in AI-driven solutions to streamline this process can significantly enhance employee satisfaction and engagement.

Enhancing Employee Satisfaction and Engagement Rates: Proactive Strategies

To meet Gen Z’s expectations, employers must move beyond traditional approaches. This includes:

  • Proactive mental health screening: Using AI to identify early signs of stress, burnout, and anxiety, and offer timely interventions.
  • Integrated wellness programs: Providing easily accessible mental health resources integrated into the workday.
  • Workplace culture and leadership: Creating a supportive environment where mental health is normalized.
  • Supportive technology: Leveraging AI-powered platforms for personalized, real-time support.

By taking a proactive and holistic approach, employers can address Gen Z’s needs and create a supportive workplace culture that fosters productivity, engagement, and well-being.

Proactive Mental Health Solutions for Gen Z in the Workplace: A Necessity

As Gen Z becomes a dominant force in the workforce, companies must adapt to their mental health needs. A proactive, integrated approach is a necessity. Employers who fail to recognize the importance of well-being risk losing talent and diminishing satisfaction. By focusing on early intervention, offering holistic solutions, and creating a supportive culture, companies can meet Gen Z’s expectations and foster a healthier, more resilient workforce. Investing in AI technology will be key in creating an innovative, supportive work environment.

For more insights, read:

  • Celestin, Mbonigaba, and N. Vanitha. "Gen Z in the Workforce: Strategies for Leading the Next Generation." In 5th International Conference on Recent Trends in Arts, Science, Engineering & Technology (ICRTASET-2020), pp. 127-134. 2020.
  • Chen, Xuelin, Mohammad Masukujjaman, Abdullah Al Mamun, Jingzu Gao, and Zafir Khan Mohamed Makhbul. "Modeling the significance of work culture on burnout, satisfaction, and psychological distress among the Gen-Z workforce in an emerging country." Humanities and Social Sciences Communications 10, no. 1 (2023): 1-12.
  • Hidayat, Raden Muhamad Daffa, and Jaya Addin Linando. "The Influence of Work-life Balance & Healthy Lifestyle on Mental Health through Focus on Work in Gen Z Employees." Selekta Manajemen: Jurnal Mahasiswa Bisnis & Manajemen 3, no. 1 (2024): 166-180.
  • Piecuch-Jodłowiec, Julia. "Adapting HRM Practices for Generation Z with a Human-centric Management Approach to Mental Health and Employee Development." (2024).
  • Vanpetch, Yingsak, and Jirawut Chearnkaitpradab. "EXPLORING THE DRIVERS OF WORK SATISFACTION AMONG GEN Z EMPLOYEES IN THE WORKPLACE." In International Conference" Actual economy: local solutions for global challenges", pp. 94-109. 2024.

‍

Written by: 

Mihael Arcan

Build a proactive wellbeing culture

Lua empowers you to build a truly proactive wellbeing culture for your workforce
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.