Gen Z has been through it. As a generation that came of age amid a tumultuous political climate, constant digital connectivity, and a global pandemic during their most formative years, the fabric of Gen Z identity has been shaped by the stresses of today’s world. From political instability to economic uncertainty, Gen Z’s mental health is a reflection of a broader societal experience.
Growing up in this climate could easily beat someone down. So, Her Campus surveyed hundreds of Gen Zers to find out how they’re really feeling. Turns out, over half (54%) of respondents have been diagnosed with or believe that they have a mental health condition — 9 in 10 of those folks say they have anxiety, and more than 6 in 10 say they have depression — so it’s not a reach to say that this generation has faced significant challenges to their mental well-being.
For many Gen Zers, awareness of mental health started early. They were born into an era marked by the highest rates of mass shootings in history, a divisive political climate, and the rise of the digital age. As a result, information — including mental health resources — has always been at their fingertips.
In fact, according to our 2025 survey, 50% of respondents say they became aware of their mental health between the ages of 13 and 16 — earlier than previous generations.
Gen Z isn’t resigned to feeling badly, though. Instead, they’re holding steady. Last year, when we asked Gen Zers to rate their mental health on a scale of 1-10, the average was 6.22. This year? Virtually the same, at 6.08.
So why is it that — with so much uncertainty and chaos in the world — Gen Z’s mental health seems surprisingly even-keeled? Let’s dive into the data to see how this generation is navigating constant change — in a world shaped by politics, digital connectivity, and never-ending uncertainty.
Top negative Impacts on Gen z mental health
Gen Z’s struggles are not only individual, but deeply entwined with the world around them. The ever-evolving political landscape has been a consistent source of anxiety, with the rise of polarizing issues and uncertainty about the future.
How the 2024 election impacted gen z mental health
"Social media has caused a decline in my mental health as I am always comparing myself to others and seeing a lot more news (negative news) than I was before.”
- Piper, 25
Being digital natives puts Gen Z in a unique position when it comes to social media. It’s a source of connection, but it also fuels comparison, anxiety, and the pressure to constantly keep up. And while many young people (62%) say they want to spend less time on social media, Gen Z is still figuring out how to find a healthier balance.
Gen Z is the first generation to grow up surrounded by social media, and that in and of itself is a double-edged sword: The digital age is marked by overwhelming stimuli and the constant pressure to stay engaged. It can leave many folks feeling disconnected despite being more connected than ever.
Gen Z isn’t just talking about mental health — they’re taking action. From therapy to self-care rituals, this generation is building a toolkit for their mental well-being. They’re more open than ever about what works for them, whether it’s engaging in a self-care ritual or seeking out professional help.
Top positive impacts on gen z mental health
More than half of respondents (53%) said a skin care routine positively impacts their mental health. So, we’ve partnered with selfmade to celebrate the connection between self-care, skin care, and mental health — and to give you a chance to win one of five selfmade x Her Campus product bundles.
These relationships — whether offline or online — provide a crucial lifeline for mental well-being, helping Gen Zers process the stresses that come from being constantly plugged into a chaotic world. But coping goes beyond friendships and routine. A majority of Gen Zers see a therapist or counselor for their mental health — more than any other generation. It’s a clear indication that therapy has become not just a tool, but a mainstream practice for young people.
THerapist AcCess Among Gen Zers with mental health conditions
racial disparities in therapy access
This disparity clearly illustrates the barriers that POC face in accessing mental health care — such as financial roadblocks, stigma, funding, institutional discrimination, and a lack of accessible, diverse mental health professionals.
Therapy isn’t for everyone, though. And for those who don’t see a therapist, they have their reasons.
You don’t have to go through it alone.
When it comes to mental health, Gen Z is continuing the conversation on their own terms, and isn’t waiting for the world to catch up. They’re naming their struggles earlier, ditching outdated stigmas around mental health diagnoses, and redefining what mental health care looks like. Whether it’s therapy, deep talks with friends, or stepping away from social media when it gets overwhelming, Gen Z isn’t resigned to their mental health struggles — it’s a part of who they are. And in a time where life feels heavier than ever, they’re making sure no one has to carry the weight alone.
Her Campus conducted an online survey in February 2025 with 515 respondents from across the United States (representation from 47 states). Most respondents identify as women (97%) and were between the ages of 18-24 (84%). Maintaining the privacy of our respondents is a top priority. Therefore, all names appearing in this article are pseudonyms.
Methodology
If you or someone you know is seeking help for mental health concerns, visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) website, or call
1-800-950-NAMI(6264). For confidential treatment referrals, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website, or call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP(4357).
If you or someone you know is seeking help for LGBTQ+ mental health or safety concerns, call The Trevor Project‘s 24/7 Lifeline at 866-4-U-TREVOR (866-488-7386). You can also reach out for instant message or text message support via TrevorChat and TrevorText, respectively. For additional resources for trans people, call the Trans Lifeline at 877-565-8860.
In an emergency, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK(8255) or call 911.
Editors: Julianna Marie & Tina Kolokathis • Social: Kate Day • Designer: Audrey Wu • All opinions are 100% our own. © Her Campus Media 2025
While many Gen Zers struggle to make new friends (37% say it’s difficult), it’s not all bad news. Despite a marked presence of loneliness (62% report feeling lonely at least once a week), Gen Z is learning to lean into their support systems.
Most Common Mental health Conditions among Gen Z
Anxiety
(88%)
Eating Disorder
(22%)
Depression
(63%)
ADD/ADHD
(29%)
OCD
(21%)
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
0
“My roommate situation is overwhelming me.”
- Lisa, 20
“I always overbook myself and my schedule. I don’t have enough time to do everything I want and take care of myself and rest.”
- Sam, 19
“Familial expectations, career plans that don't pan out, friends who seem distant, the barrage of news (both political or even local) that sounds so bleak.”
- Quinn, 26
“Graduating, finding a job, and my family becoming ill/passing away. Where will I live? Where will I work?”
- Avery, 22
“School and relationships are both overwhelming me and stressing me out!”
- Rowan, 19
How much time Gen Z spends on social media per day
less than 1 hour
1-3 hours
4-6 hours
7-9 hours
more than 9 hours
How each social media platform impacts mental health
Positive
Negative
“I do something that makes me happy or make a plan for a solution to my problem.”
- Angela, 19
“I breathe, I meditate, I take breaks. I do self-care, like face masks and reading a book or playing a game.”
- Kelly, 19
“I try to take it one step at a time, but it’s still hard.”
- Brooke, 18
"I typically cope with stress by taking some time for myself and sleeping."
- Sydney, 21
“Sitting with my emotions and allowing myself to understand what I’m going through and why I feel that way.”
- Tessa, 18
42%
Don't have a therapist
Currently have a therapist
57%
Gen z's OUtlook on community
Positive
8%
Neutral
25%
Negative
67%
50%
of respondents say they have a strong sense of community
“I’m not sure if I need it/I think I can handle it on my own.”
“I don’t know where to start.”
“I don’t have enough time.”
Mental Health Resources
White
Person of color
Click each section to color the page!
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School
& Work
(46%)
Social Media (40%)
Current Events
(58%)
Financial Security (37%)
Politics (59%)
Exercise
(50%)
Family Relationships (50%)
Skin Care
& Hair Care Routines
(53%)
Time Outdoors (46%)
Friendships
(72%)
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Not only are school and work stressing people out, but that stress is also affecting their performance.
In 2024, this number was higher, with 66% of Gen Zers saying they spend four or more hours on social media every day.
67%
61%
51%
26%
14%
12%
Remaining respondents preferred not to answer.
Top 3 reasons Why Gen zers don't see therapists
believe their mental health struggles have impacted their school or work performance
95%
74%
have missed class or work due to their mental health struggles
Growing up with 24/7 access to breaking news and current events has shaped how this generation processes and reacts to the world around them. On top of that, rising living costs, student debt, and an uncertain job market have left Gen Z facing financial worries that take a toll on their emotional well-being.
What’s stressing Gen Zers out currently?
5%
40%
38%
12%
5%
40%
27%
26%
16%
3%
1%
Yes
No
52%
42%
15%
18%
Are your mental health services covered by insurance?
Yes
No
61%
49%
33%
46%
Do you see a therapist, counselor, psychiatrist, or other medical professional for your mental health?
“I love using Pinterest and YouTube for inspiration, but doomscrolling on Instagram makes me feel worse.”
- Jen, 22
Here's how Gen Z is getting through it.
The Be There Certificate, a free online mental health course created by Jack.org in partnership with the Born This Way Foundation, teaches people how to recognize when someone might be struggling, understand their role in supporting that person, and connect them with the help they need and deserve. This course is available in English, French, and Spanish.
The Crisis Text Line is available 24/7 for immediate support when you need it most. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor for free, confidential support anytime you’re in emotional distress.
Inclusive Therapists is a platform that helps connect individuals with licensed mental health professionals who are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
"Social media has caused a decline in my mental health as I am always comparing myself to others and seeing a lot more news (negative news) than I was before.”
- Piper, 25
How each social media platform impacts mental health
Gen Z is the first generation to grow up surrounded by social media, and that in and of itself is a double-edged sword: The digital age is marked by overwhelming stimuli and the constant pressure to stay engaged. It can leave many folks feeling disconnected despite being more connected than ever.
In 2024, this number was higher, with 66% of Gen Zers saying they spend four or more hours on social media every day.
Enter Now
Stress
Coping
Resources
What’s stressing Gen Zers out currently?
For Gen Z, community is coping.
You don’t have to go through it alone.
Terms and conditions apply.
Remaining respondents preferred not to answer.
