Gen Z’s Mental Health Crisis: What a Therapist Is Seeing

Austin Calo, a Texas-based therapist, recently went viral after sharing troubling observations about Gen Z, the generation born between 1997 and 2012. His video now has over 2 million views, drawing attention to the significant mental health struggles facing young people today. Austin offers key insights into the challenges that contribute to the sense of powerlessness and isolation many Gen Z’ers experience.

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1. Powerlessness and Detachment: A Growing Trend

Austin explains that Gen Z often experiences a “sense of powerlessness.” Many young people feel like events are happening to them, rather than things they can influence. The COVID-19 pandemic has only deepened these feelings. “When you live through something as disruptive as a global pandemic, it’s easy to feel like you have no control,” says Austin. As a result, Gen Z’s emotional detachment has grown, and many have adopted a nihilistic outlook. “This detachment affects how they see the world and themselves,” he adds.

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2. Social Media’s Pressure and Anxiety

Social media plays a huge role in shaping the mental health of Gen Z. “They worry about being judged or humiliated online,” Austin explains. “This fear of being ‘cringe’ keeps them from expressing themselves freely.” Young people feel pressure to conform to an idealized online image, which leads to anxiety and stress. The constant surveillance of social media creates an environment where many feel disconnected from true, meaningful community. “The more they see, the less authentic they feel,” Austin says.

The impact of social media extends beyond anxiety. Gen Z is pressured to identify with labels related to mental illness, sexuality, and more. “Instead of exploring who they are, many feel rushed to define themselves,” Austin points out. This only increases their stress as they struggle to find their place in an increasingly polarized world.

3. Increased Media Literacy, Yet More Manipulation

While Gen Z is highly media literate, Austin notes that this knowledge doesn’t protect them from manipulation. “They know when they’re being sold to, but it’s hard to escape,” he says. Gen Z’s awareness of how media operates is both empowering and disheartening. The overwhelming nature of targeted content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram only reinforces their existing views, leading to a lack of new perspectives. “It becomes a cycle of confirmation, and that makes it hard to break free,” Austin explains.

Social media is polarizing, and Gen Z feels its effects. “It’s no longer about healthy debate,” Austin states. “It’s about ideological battles.” Young people feel disconnected from constructive discussions, and this contributes to their feelings of isolation and despair.

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4. Economic Pressures and the Devaluation of Education

Austin also identifies economic factors as a significant source of stress for Gen Z. “Fewer young people will own homes or have stable careers,” he says. The cost of education and student debt weigh heavily on their minds. “Education doesn’t guarantee success anymore,” Austin notes. This uncertainty about the future creates a deep sense of anxiety and hopelessness.

“Gen Z faces a world where opportunities seem scarce,” he adds. “Many are struggling to see a clear path forward, and that diminishes their drive.”

5. What Can Be Done? Advice for Gen Z

Austin’s advice for Gen Z is to question negative self-talk and break free from external influences. “Challenge the voices in your head that make you feel powerless,” he says. “You need to identify where these feelings are coming from and reject them if they’re not your own.” He also stresses the importance of building real, meaningful connections. “Focus on relationships that bring you joy, not validation from strangers online.”

6. Empathy, Not Judgment

Finally, Austin urges older generations to show more empathy toward Gen Z. “Instead of criticizing them, we need to understand the unique challenges they face,” he says. “Gen Z is dealing with issues we didn’t have to contend with.” By offering support and understanding, we can help them overcome their struggles and feel empowered to make positive changes.