Major Causes of Depression
Social media stress
Social media can be fun, until we start comparing our lives with others. It is affecting Gen Z in many ways. They compare themselves to others on social media and feel bad about themselves. Moreover, facing bullying and harassment online makes them feel scared and alone. Spending too much time on social media, neglecting other important things in life which can affect their ability to communicate with others. Additionally, social media is a common cause of depression among Gen Z. So, it’s important for their parents and teachers to help them use social media in a healthy way.
Academic stress
In this competitive world, academic stress is a major cause of depression. They often face pressure, competition, and high expectations which can lead to stress and anxiety. Moreover, facing constant pressure from teachers and parents can make them feel that they are not good enough.
Body shaming
Now, you might be wondering how body shaming can be a cause of depression? But the truth is yes, it is. When someone is criticized for their body, color or gender, it can lower their self-esteem and lead to depression.
Family problems
When there's fighting, neglect, or abuse at home, it can make you feel sad, alone, and unloved. Growing up in a family that doesn't work well together or dealing with the loss of a loved one can also lead to depression. Moreover, it affects the mental health of an individual and develops a feeling of loneliness.
Symptoms of depression
Here are some common symptoms of depression in Gen Z:
- Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness
- Angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, even over small matters
- Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things
- thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts or suicide
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches
- Social withdrawal or isolation
Everyone experiences depression differently and It’s not important that everyone has all these symptoms. If you’re concerned about yourself or someone else, talk about what you are feeling inside, share your thoughts, burst out your emotions and moreover, help others to get out of depression who are struggling with it, talk to them, and most importantly listen to them.
What action can we take to support Gen Z struggling with depression?
- Make them feel that you are a safe place for them. To which they can talk without any hesitation, share their thoughts, what they feel inside, what they are going through. Create an environment where they feel comfortable talking to you.
- Find out their love language and show them love regularly. By doing this they will not feel that they are alone, or nobody loves them.
- Show them physical affection in an appropriate way like hug them, hold their hand, sit with them.
- Suggest professional help like therapy or counseling. This will help them to overcome depression
- Don’t push them to talk if they are not ready. Respect boundaries.
- Remind them that they are not alone who have overcome depression. Share real life examples with them. This will encourage and will bring hope to them to fight against this battle.
- Make them feel that they are fighters, and they can win this battle alone.
- Be aware of social media’s impact. Discuss healthy online habits and cyberbullying.
- By providing emotional support, resources, and understanding you can help Gen Z navigate depression and work towards recovery.
Speak out!
It's time to talk openly about depression and mental health. Without worrying what people will think, it’s about you, your mental health matters. And it’s okay to be not okay sometimes. But remember you are not alone. There are people who love you and who always want to see you happy. Depression is a serious condition that can affect anyone, and it’s important to seek help and support when needed. By sharing our struggles and supporting one another, we can create a safe space for vulnerability and healing.
Conclusion
To conclude, depression among Gen Z is a complex issue, but by understanding the reasons behind it, we can start to make a difference. Moreover, there are several causes of depression like social media stress, body image issues, academic stress, family problems and relationship problems. So, it’s important to understand the cause first then start to overcome the depression. Try to support people who are going through depression, talk to them, listen to them without any judgment.