Even as Generation Z turned out in massive numbers largely to support Democrats, a new survey revealed a startling trend. Millions in this age group now suffer from mental health issues, a pattern first noted during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The research, conducted by Indiana-based Harmony Healthcare IT, found that 42% of this age group has a diagnosed mental health issue. A full 25% said their diagnosis was made during the pandemic.
This number is stunning for many reasons, including the size of the demographic. There are more Gen Z’ers, born from the mid to late 1990s through the early 2010s, than any other age group after millennials and baby boomers.
Almost 70% of Zoomers said COVID-19 negatively affected their mental health, and this showed results in their anxiety levels. Roughly 85% expressed worry about the future.
Of those diagnosed with a mental health disorder, 80% suffer from depression and 90% have anxiety.
Who’d of thunk it?!?
Gen Z – Whose Votes Bolstered Democrats in the Mid Terms – Are Suffering Massive Pandemic-Induced Depression. https://t.co/4cdAGIupsd
— Park 🇺🇸 (@dwp9470) November 23, 2022
Compared to past generations, Zoomers told surveyors they have a tougher time getting ahead. Areas of concern included the economy, their personal financial health, their physical health, the environment, politics, and work situations.
On the plus side, Gen Z Christians were shown in a recent study to be more politically engaged than their secular counterparts.
However, the overall demographic is largely credited with a major role in preventing the predicted “red wave.”
Participants reported that 57% of the age group regularly takes medication, and a surprising 39% see a therapist at least once a week. Nearly nine in 10 said they have difficulty seeing themselves in a bright future.
It is clear that the draconian reactions to COVID-19 had far more negative effects on young people than the coronavirus itself. That such an important demographic is beset by mental health problems stemming from the pandemic is alarming and must be addressed.
