Corona-Pandemic
Generation Z affected: Mental illnesses are increasing
Updated on december 11, 2024reading time: 2 min.
depression and anxiety disorders: The number of mental illnesses among young people is increasing. the reasons are related to the corona pandemic.
According to a survey for the KKH health insurance company, depression and anxiety disorders have increased notably sharply among younger people from the so-called Generation Z. The frequency of recurring depression among people between the ages of 18 and 29 rose by 130 percent between 2013 and 2023, as the KKH Hannover reported on Tuesday. the increase was therefore significantly greater than in the overall German population, where it was only around 56 percent.
There was also a significantly greater increase in anxiety disorders among younger people. according to the figures collected for the KKH,their frequency among 18 to 29 year olds increased by 42 percent between 2013 and 2023.In the overall population, the increase was 19 percent over the same period. Especially as the corona pandemic, anxiety disorders among younger people have “increased disproportionately,” the health insurance company summarized.
The KKH linked the increase in depression and anxiety disorders to increasing loneliness in society.This is also a problem for people beyond Generation Z, the health insurance company explained. According to the survey, around two thirds of 18 to 50 year olds (64 percent) sometimes felt left out or lonely. half of those affected feel sad and depressed in lonely moments, and one in four feel burnt out.
“Anyone who is permanently lonely can afterward develop mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety disorders,” explained KKH expert and doctor Aileen Könitz. It is a kind of “vicious circle”.
According to the health insurance company, increasing aggressiveness and declining empathy in society could be a central cause of loneliness. In a survey conducted by the Forsa research institute on behalf of the KKH, a good third of 18 to 50-year-olds (35 percent) who were lonely at least some of the time said that a “change in social interaction” was the trigger. Too little time for maintaining contacts, for example due to work-related stress, was often cited as a reason.
In this context, the fund referred to the consequences of recurring crises – such as the corona pandemic, the Russian war against Ukraine, inflation and the climate crisis. In times of instability, insecurities and frustrations increase. In addition, as the Corona crisis, interpersonal contacts in many areas have been permanently “displaced” by digital alternatives such as video conferences or online shopping. This also promotes loneliness.”Personal exchange is dwindling in many places.”
Another factor is the “sometimes excessive” use of social media, especially among young people. The KKH emphasized that social media could be an vital building block for maintaining contacts and exchange. A big problem, however, is the omnipresent comparison and evaluation on the Internet. it only favors those who stage themselves cleverly. For others, “dissatisfaction, depressive feelings and loneliness” would be triggered.
Forsa surveyed 1,002 people nationwide for the KKH at the end of October and beginning of November. The survey also included data from those insured by the fund on the frequency of recurring depression and anxiety disorders.
How can parents and educators better support young people’s mental health needs during these challenging times?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Mental Health Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. thompson. Thank you for joining us today to discuss a pressing issue that many are facing—mental health challenges among Generation Z, especially in the aftermath of the Corona pandemic.
Dr. Thompson: Thank you for having me. It’s a critical time to address these issues.
Time.news Editor: Recent studies, including a survey by KKH health insurance, indicate a notable increase in depression and anxiety disorders among young people, especially those from Generation Z. Can you elaborate on the factors contributing to this rise?
Dr. Thompson: Certainly. The pandemic created a perfect storm for mental health crises among young people.Isolation, uncertainty, and the disruption of social norms played critically important roles. Many Gen Z individuals experienced disruption in their education, career opportunities, and social interactions, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and anxiety.
Time.news Editor: That makes sense. The lack of social interactions is something many can relate to. How do you think the shift to online learning and remote work impacted these mental health statistics?
Dr. Thompson: The transition has been profound. While online learning provided a temporary solution, it lacks the human connection that is crucial for developing social skills and emotional resilience. Many students reported higher stress levels and difficulties in maintaining focus and motivation. This isolation can exacerbate pre-existing mental health issues or lead to new ones.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of exacerbation, do you think that the mental health issues observed during the pandemic are likely to have long-term effects on Generation Z?
Dr. Thompson: Unfortunately, yes. The psychological toll of the pandemic can lead to chronic stress responses, which might result in long-term mental health challenges. Early intervention is critical. If we can provide proper resources and support, we might mitigate these effects.
Time.news Editor: What kind of resources do you think are essential for supporting this generation’s mental health needs?
Dr. Thompson: Access to mental health resources, such as counseling services and peer support programs, is vital. Additionally, incorporating mental health education in schools can help destigmatize these issues and empower young people to seek help when needed. Moreover, fostering open communication about mental health within families can create safe spaces for youth to express their feelings.
time.news Editor: It sounds like a multi-faceted approach is necessary.Are there any specific signs that parents and educators should look for in young people that may indicate they are struggling?
Dr. Thompson: Absolutely. Changes in behavior,mood swings,withdrawal from social interactions,declining academic performance,and increased irritability can all be red flags. It’s significant for parents and educators to be observant but also to foster an environment where young people feel safe to share if they are struggling.
Time.news Editor: This is such critically important details, Dr.Thompson. As we look to the future, what gives you hope regarding the mental health landscape for Generation Z?
Dr. Thompson: I believe there’s growing recognition of the importance of mental health. Many young people are becoming advocates for their own mental well-being and are not afraid to speak up about their struggles.This shift in mentality,combined with increased awareness and resources,can lead to positive changes in how we approach mental health in society.
Time.news Editor: Thank you so much for your insights, Dr. Thompson. It’s crucial that we continue to shine a light on this topic, especially for the sake of our younger generations.
Dr.Thompson: Thank you for bringing attention to this critical issue. Together,we can drive change and support the mental health of Generation Z.