Mental Health: The Dark Side of the Zen-G Generation – AI vs GenZ

1 Comment / By Lakshay / March 11, 2023

The Zen-G generation, born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, is facing unprecedented challenges. With the rise of artificial intelligence and automation, the job market is becoming increasingly competitive and unstable, leaving many young people feeling lost and uncertain about their future. This, combined with a range of other factors, has led to a rise in mental health issues, particularly depression and drug abuse.

Depression

Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and it’s particularly prevalent among young people. In fact, a recent study found that 1 in 5 young adults in the US has experienced depression at some point in their lives.

There are a variety of factors that contribute to depression, including genetic predisposition, environmental conditions, financial background, and class of the family. For example, children who grow up in poverty are more likely to experience depression than those who grow up in more affluent households. Similarly, children who are exposed to stressful or traumatic events, such as abuse or neglect, are also more likely to develop depression.

Drug Abuse

Drug abuse is another serious problem that affects many young people. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, over 11% of young adults in the US have used illicit drugs in the past year, and drug overdose is now the leading cause of accidental death in the country.

There are a number of factors that contribute to drug abuse, including genetic predisposition, environmental conditions, and access to drugs. For example, children who grow up in households where drug use is common are more likely to develop drug problems themselves. Similarly, children who are exposed to high levels of stress, such as those living in poverty or experiencing trauma, are more likely to turn to drugs as a coping mechanism.

Genetic Modification

One of the newer factors that may contribute to mental health issues is genetic modification. As genetic engineering technologies become more advanced, scientists are beginning to explore the possibility of using them to modify the human genome in ways that could improve mental health. However, this is a controversial area, with many ethical and practical concerns that need to be addressed.

Environmental Condition

The environment we live in also plays a significant role in our mental health. For example, exposure to pollution, noise, and other environmental factors can increase stress levels and contribute to mental health problems. Similarly, lack of access to green spaces and other natural environments has been linked to depression and other mental health issues.

Financial Background

Financial background can also play a role in mental health. Children who grow up in poverty or in households with high levels of financial stress are more likely to experience mental health issues than those who grow up in more stable financial situations.

Class of the Family

Similarly, the class of the family can also play a role. Children who grow up in lower social classes may have fewer resources and opportunities available to them, leading to feelings of hopelessness and despair.

Confidence Level of a Child

Finally, the confidence level of a child can also play a role in their mental health. Children who are praised and encouraged for their achievements are more likely to develop a strong sense of self-esteem and self-worth, which can help protect them against mental health issues. Conversely, children who are criticized or constantly compared to others may develop low self-esteem and be more vulnerable to depression and other mental health issues.

Steps to Build a Rich Nation

Building a rich nation requires addressing these mental health issues head-on. This means investing in mental health services, including counseling and therapy, as well as education and awareness campaigns to reduce the stigma around mental health. It also means addressing the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to mental health issues,

The factors that are misleading the Gen Z generation to become more restless and unfurnished include the rise of artificial intelligence and automation, which is leading to job insecurity and competition; environmental factors such as pollution and lack of access to green spaces; financial stress and social class inequalities; genetic modification and the ethical concerns it raises; and a lack of encouragement and praise leading to low self-esteem and confidence. It is important to address these issues and invest in mental health services, education and awareness campaigns, and address underlying social and economic factors to build a rich nation and improve the mental health and well-being of future generations.