Kids In Crisis: The State of Gen Z Mental Health

Gen Z is the most diverse, connected, and tech-savvy generation in history. However, Gen Z teens also face a unique set of challenges related to their mental health. While there’s more awareness around mental health issues than ever before, the statistics on mental health in teens reveal that Gen Z still needs support.

If you want to learn more about child and adolescent behavioral health in recent years, as well as statistics about anxiety, PTSD, and major depression in teens, keep reading here.

Statistics on Mental Health in Teens

So what do the numbers reveal about Gen Z’s mental health?

Gen Z reports the poorest mental health of any generation¹
48% of Gen Zers report being stressed most or all of the time²
Only 44% of Gen Z says they feel prepared for the future¹
42% of Gen Z has been diagnosed with a mental health condition³

So why do statistics on mental health in teens show that teens are struggling more than ever? While the COVID-19 pandemic is an obvious contributor, other societal factors are also at play. Growing up in the age of social media and the pressure to be “perfect” can take a toll on a teen’s mental health. The constant comparison to others on social media, along with cyberbullying and online harassment, can all contribute to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.

Supporting Teens with Major Depression

One of the most common mental health conditions in teens is major depression. This is more than just feeling sad or down for a few days; it’s a serious and persistent mental health condition. Major depression in teens can look like:

Intense sadness or hopelessness
Changes in appetite and sleep patterns
Loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy
Difficulty concentrating
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Are you worried that you or a loved one might be struggling with major depression? Don’t wait to get help. There’s no shame in reaching out for support — in fact, it’s a sign of strength. Talking with a parent, a trusted adult, or a mental health professional is the first step in feeling better.

Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health Support

While statistics on mental health in teens may look hopeless, there is a movement to build more robust support facilities. Some of the services from places like Ascend that can help include:

Residential treatment which provides a safe, supportive space for teens to heal, reset, and grow.
Individual therapy from experts who specialize in helping teens navigate the challenges they face, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and more.
Family therapy to improve communication and relationships between parents and their teens.
Group therapy that can allow teens to connect with peers who are addressing similar struggles.
Academic support with onsite teachers that keep teens focused and on track, even while they’re in treatment.

Don’t let statistics on mental health in teens freeze you into inaction. Use these numbers as motivation to seek the help and support you or your loved ones need to thrive.

Call Ascend Today to Get Started

If you’re ready to take the first steps toward healing and growth, it’s time to reach out to Ascend for an assessment. Our specialists can work with your current mental health team to determine the best placement for your needs.

Call 310.388.3713 or reach out to our team online today to learn more about our programs.