Last Updated on February 1, 2024 by Neelam Singh
A totally different group has come to light in the shifting landscape of generational identities: the zillennials. Having grown up in a society influenced by both digital and traditional factors, those born between 1993 and 1998 constitute the transition between millennials and Generation Z. Zillennials find themselves at the crossroads of socio-economic issues and changes in technology in their endless search for personal growth and societal management. Understanding the unique problems, this micro-generation experiences is essential as we explore zillennial mental health issues.
Who are Zillennials?
Zillennials, as defined by Urban Dictionary, represent a curious generation that is neither old enough to truly identify with the core of millennials nor young enough to totally identify with Gen Z. Growing up in the 2000s, they transitioned from teenagers to adults through the revolutionary 2010s. Zillennials and millennials have several things in common: experiences of a pre-digital childhood and early experiences with the transformational power of technology. Nonetheless, considering their birthright at the junction of these two generational eras, they also display unique characteristics that separate them from both millennials and Gen Z. Now we will explicate the effects this extraordinary journey is having on their mental health.
Zillennials’ mental health
Millennial mental health issues are one of the top concerns these days as this generation is commonly referred to as the ‘burnout generation’. The truth is Zillennials are burning out at an even more severe level. One of the characteristics that sets this generation apart is their constant battle with mental health and emotional well-being in this cut-throat world. Their confusion and the feeling of not belonging anywhere puts them in a dark spot with no lights and directions.
Problems and disorders faecd by Zillennials
People refer to the zillennials as the ‘anxious generation’. Due to the accessibility of internet and the endless comparison of one’s life to others, an alarming 92% of people believe their mental health has declined since the COVID-19 pandemic. This concern is a result of both unfulfilled expectations and a generic feeling of social pressure. Apart from anxiety, here are some more common zillennial mental health issues:
- Depression
- Loneliness
- Isolation
- Stress
- Sleep Disorders
- Eating Disorders
All these issues rise from the pressure this generation has on them. For instance, academic pressure which slides them into student loan debts and eventually financial stress. Zillennials are constantly trying to cope in this highly competitive world while keeping their sanity intact.
Reasons for Zillennials’ mental strain
Residential issues, underemployment and financial instability are the major root causes of zillennial mental health issues. Student loan debts make it even worse for them to cope with their stress, worry and depression. Also, ongoing discrimination based on gender and sexuality contributes to feelings of helplessness and frustration. This directly has a negative impact on their mental health. Even though zillennials have greater access to technology than ever before, they frequently express feeling alone and isolated. Instead of encouraging real relationships, social media often promotes comparison. This kind of isolation puts them into an existential crisis.
Zillennial Celebrities and mental health
Let’s have a look at what zillennial celebrities have to say about their mental health issues and their efforts to make it a safe space for everyone. While promoting Dear Zindagi, Alia Bhatt, opened about her experiences with anxiety and emphasised the significance of taking mental health seriously. On the other hand, Ira Khan, the daughter of superstar Aamir Khan, started the Agatsu Foundation with the goal of promoting mental health through community-focused programmes and tools. Also, the British actress Jameela Jamil, through her platform ‘I Weigh‘, addresses the mental health toll in the fashion, beauty and entertainment industries. What started as an initiative against body-shaming has evolved into a comprehensive mental health movement. They now, are, offering support to fight depression, anxiety, body dysmorphia and eating disorders.
Zillennials do not have to pursue well-being alone. By working together as a community, we can close the gap between the analogue and digital worlds, boosting mental wellness and enabling this unique micro-generation’s unique path. Gen Z’s mental health issues require our focus, understanding, and commitment.
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