Some teens today seem to live with their phones in hand. For Generation Z — those born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s — technology has always been part of life. They’re the first true “digital natives,” growing up in a world where connection, entertainment, and information are only a tap away.
But this constant connectivity comes with a cost. Gen Z is experiencing higher rates of anxiety, depression, and loneliness than any previous generation. While they’re also the most open about discussing their mental health, the numbers show that many are struggling beneath the surface.
This post will walk you through why Gen Z is facing such high levels of anxiety and depression, the effects it can have, and how parents can support their teens in navigating this landscape.
Mental Health Trends in Gen Z
Research shows that Gen Z reports mental health challenges at higher rates than older generations. Anxiety and depression are especially common, with many teens experiencing persistent worry, sadness, or hopelessness that affects their daily lives.
A few key findings from recent studies include:
- More than 40% of Gen Z report having a diagnosed mental health condition.
- Anxiety and depression are the most common, affecting the vast majority of those with a diagnosis.
- Teens and young adults in Gen Z are more likely to report self-injury, suicidal thoughts, and attempts than earlier generations did at the same age.
While these numbers are sobering, it’s also important to note that Gen Z is more willing than past generations to seek therapy, talk openly about their struggles, and advocate for their mental health. That openness creates opportunities for earlier support—if parents know what to look for.
Why Gen Z Experiences High Rates of Anxiety and Depression
Gen Z’s struggles with anxiety and depression don’t stem from one source—they’re shaped by the unique pressures of growing up in today’s world. From technology to academic stress, these overlapping factors create an environment where mental health challenges are harder to avoid.
Growing Up “Always On”
Gen Z teens live in a world where the internet is ever-present. Between school, social life, and entertainment, most spend several hours a day online. This “always on” culture increases exposure to comparison, cyberbullying, and constant stimulation, which can fuel anxiety and leave little time for rest or reflection.
You might notice your teen:
- Struggling to unplug from their phone, even late at night
- Feeling anxious when they can’t check social media
- Comparing themselves harshly to peers online
Less Face-to-Face Connection
Compared to earlier generations, today’s teens spend less time in person with friends and more time connecting digitally. While online platforms offer convenience, they don’t fully replace the benefits of face-to-face interactions. Less in-person time can heighten loneliness, make it harder to practice social skills, and contribute to depression.
Academic and Social Pressures
Gen Z is growing up in a highly competitive environment. Pressure to excel in school, sports, and extracurriculars—combined with uncertainty about the future—adds another layer of stress. Many teens worry about grades, college admissions, and how they’ll measure up in a fast-changing world.
Lingering Effects of the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted school, routines, and friendships during formative years. For many Gen Z teens, those experiences deepened feelings of isolation and intensified existing mental health struggles. Even as life has returned to “normal,” the effects haven’t disappeared.
Identity and Belonging
Adolescence is already a time of figuring out “who am I?” Gen Z teens are navigating identity in an era where conversations about race, gender, sexuality, and social justice are more visible than ever. This openness is positive, but it can also create stress for teens who feel misunderstood, unsupported, or excluded.
The Impact of Anxiety and Depression on Teens
Anxiety and depression can shape much more than mood—they can affect every area of a teen’s life. Some impacts include:
- School performance: Difficulty concentrating, avoiding assignments, or missing school due to stress.
- Relationships: Withdrawing from friends, family conflict, or feeling disconnected from peers.
- Physical health: Headaches, stomachaches, changes in sleep or appetite linked to stress.
- Self-esteem: Persistent feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or hopelessness.
Without support, these struggles can grow over time. But with help, teens can learn ways to cope and build resilience that lasts into adulthood.
How Parents Can Support Their Gen Z Teen
Parents can’t remove every pressure their teen faces, but they can provide stability, perspective, and tools that make challenges easier to manage. These strategies give teens a foundation of support while showing them they don’t have to face their struggles alone.
Open Conversations About Mental Health
Gen Z is more comfortable than past generations talking about mental health. Meeting that openness with your own honesty and empathy can help your teen feel safe coming to you. Try:
- Asking open-ended questions like, “How have you been feeling lately?”
- Listening without rushing to fix things right away
- Sharing your own experiences with stress or worry to normalize the conversation
Encourage Balance With Technology
You don’t need to ban devices, but you can help your teen set healthy limits that reduce stress. Options include:
- Establishing screen-free times, like during meals or an hour before bed
- Encouraging offline activities they enjoy, such as sports, art, or time outside
- Talking about how social media makes them feel, rather than focusing only on screen time
Watch for Warning Signs
Stay alert for changes in your teen’s mood or behavior that could point to anxiety or depression. Some red flags include withdrawal from friends, declining grades, changes in sleep or appetite, or frequent physical complaints. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s worth paying attention.
Seek Professional Support When Needed
Therapy can provide a safe space for teens to process emotions, build coping skills, and feel less alone in their struggles. Many Gen Z teens are open to seeing a therapist, and early support can prevent symptoms from worsening.
Professional support might include:
- Individual therapy – One-on-one support to explore feelings and build healthy coping skills
- Group therapy – Peer connection in a supportive, guided setting
- Family therapy – Strengthening communication and relationships at home
- School counseling – On-campus guidance for academic and social stress
- Treatment programs (IOP/PHP) – Higher-level care for teens with significant symptoms
Support That Helps Gen Z Teens Thrive
Gen Z faces unique pressures, and high rates of anxiety and depression show how deeply those pressures can affect teens today. With the right support, your teen can learn practical ways to manage stress, strengthen their mental health, and feel more hopeful about the future.
At Imagine by Northpoint, we provide therapy that meets teens where they are—helping them build coping skills, improve self-esteem, and find balance in a world that often feels overwhelming.
If your teen is struggling with anxiety, depression, or daily stress, we’re here to help them feel supported, understood, and equipped for what’s ahead.
Contact us today to learn more about our teen therapy programs and how we support Gen Z teens in building resilience and confidence.