Why are Gen Z experiencing higher rates of depression?

Due to increased loneliness, self-harm, and clinical depression.

What role did smartphones play in Gen Z's mental health struggles?

Contributed to increased online time and reduced face-to-face interactions.

Led to a sense of disconnection and meaninglessness.

Arises when individuals face uncontrollable challenges.

By accepting pain, focusing on intentional desires, and being present.

Gen Z, especially young people, are facing a concerning rise in depression and hopelessness, with Dr. Jean Twenge's research pointing to increased loneliness, self-harm, and clinical depression among teens.
The surge in mental health issues among Gen Z, particularly after 2012, is attributed to factors like smartphone adoption leading to excessive online time, reduced face-to-face interactions, and the negative impacts of postmodernism and eroding traditional values like the American Dream.

Why are Gen Z experiencing higher rates of depression?
Due to increased loneliness, self-harm, and clinical depression.
What role did smartphones play in Gen Z's mental health struggles?
Contributed to increased online time and reduced face-to-face interactions.
How has postmodernism affected Gen Z's sense of meaning?
Led to a sense of disconnection and meaninglessness.
What is the concept of learned helplessness?
Arises when individuals face uncontrollable challenges.
How can Eastern wisdom help Gen Z cope with struggles?
By accepting pain, focusing on intentional desires, and being present.

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Young people, particularly Gen Z, are experiencing higher rates of depression and hopelessness compared to previous generations.
Research into generational psychology and philosophy aims to understand and address the root causes of Gen Z's mental health challenges.
Dr. Jean Twenge's work highlights significant negative trends among teens, such as increased loneliness, self-harm, and clinical depression.
The year 2012 marks a turning point, correlating with a surge in mental health issues among Gen Z.
The rapid adoption of smartphones in 2012 is identified as a key factor contributing to Gen Z's mental health struggles.
Smartphone ownership led to increased online time, reduced face-to-face interactions, and negative impacts on mental health, especially for girls.
Postmodernism's emphasis on individual freedom has led to a sense of disconnection and meaninglessness among Gen Z.
The American Dream, once promising stability and success through hard work, has eroded, leading to disillusionment among Gen Z.
Global trends like "tanging" in China reflect a growing dissatisfaction with competitive work cultures and a desire for change.
The internet's amplification of extremes has distorted Gen Z's perception of success and agency, leading to feelings of powerlessness despite increased visibility.

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Learned helplessness arises when individuals face uncontrollable challenges, leading to feelings of powerlessness and lack of motivation to change their circumstances.
Greek philosopher Epic Tetus emphasized the importance of understanding what is within our control and what is not, highlighting the significance of taking responsibility for areas like physical fitness, relationships, and personal growth.
Eastern wisdom teaches the importance of letting go of unnecessary suffering by accepting pain and struggles, focusing on intentional desires, and being fully present in the moment to create positive change within ourselves and appreciate life's beauty.