Anxiety with COVID-19

While Generation Z’s anxiety levels are already elevated compared to those of our parents and grandparents, the undeniable truth of this pandemic is that it’s no longer just a physical virus. Rather, it’s a pandemic that can affect the mental health of all people. Gen Z is the awkward phase stuck between growing with technology as it advances, and the classic daily life of how things were before iPhones and TikTok. This also means our generation has been brought up with societal changes and the increase of social activism; taking on the responsibility of causing change from the moment we came into the world.

As mentioned before, Gen Z already ranks higher in anxiety levels. According to a summarized report done by Sophie Bethune at the American Psychology Association (APA), Gen Z is “18 percent more likely than some other generations” to be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. And comparing Gen Z’s overall quality of mental health to others there is also a significant difference. The APA stated that only about 45% of Gen Z reports having good mental health. This is compared to 56% of Millennial, 51% of Gen X and 70% of Baby Boomers. The reasons behind this include that Gen Z is surrounded by an increased amount of exposure to societal issues like school shootings, police brutality, and climate change. These factors increase the anxiety levels that the average kid and teenager feel. Not limited to the issues themselves, Gen Z has knowingly stepped up into the role of activism, working to right the wrongs of today’s world, which by default adds extra stress onto their shoulders.

Then, in the midst of it all, a pandemic hits. Closing schools and work, shutting down facilities, and of course, quarantine. The Coronavirus has halted the few ways teens have been able to escape their constant anxious feelings about the world. Being unable to see friends, family, and engage in regular social activities, we have been forced to be stuck in our rooms, and within our minds. Wanting to be unselfish, it’s a lot easier to focus on the greater things that are happening across the globe. However, that can’t change the sadness, fear, and anxiety that comes with being in solitary confinement on an individual scale. Teens had already been experiencing high amounts of anxiety, and now, being unable to access our distractions, focusing on the chaos of the world only spikes these levels of anxiety further. Add this to the negative effects of social media, relationships being strained, and online school, it has been a difficult time for everyone, regardless of whether or not the virus affects an individual firsthand. In one way or another, each person will come out of the pandemic with their own story.

Feeling this way is completely reasonable and valid. Though we can’t control our situation and decisions of the rest of society, each individual is left with a choice. To reflect and appreciate what was given to us, even if it wasn’t much, or to wallow in the despair around us. Being able to access and understand technology is a gift on its own. Simply practicing gratitude is a habit that should be built upon, pandemic or not. It may not be easy, seeing as this generation is still just children growing up, facing their own mental health and daily troubles, but it will be worth it.

Even among these intense feelings and emotions that blossomed from the pandemic, Generation Z knows how to persevere. It’s important though to focus on the little things; text your friends a small paragraph today, reminding them how much you love them, or email your teachers just to catch up. You can still be active in your community as well; check online to see if there are any ways you can help local businesses, hospitals, etc. Stay up to date with the news, but make sure to also take time for yourself. Make daily morning and night routines, follow pages on social media focused on self-help; read or write, and build healthy habits. The most important part is to find a routine that works for you.

One can also find many online resources if they feel like they’re struggling, or that they don’t have a support system. Texting hotlines and tele-help won’t be able to replace professional help, but they are great resources for immediate needs. There are organizations online that have detailed lists of specific tele-health options. For example check out organizations like the Broglie Box or TeenLink. But don’t limit yourself to these options; following blog posts, podcasts or Youtube channels that promote healthy lifestyles are all effective ways to fill your mind with positive intake. Though there is a pandemic, your mental health and anxiety levels matter. Take each day slowly and do your best to set goals one day at a time. Take this time to focus on you; and remember to practice gratitude, love others, and love yourself.

Name: Seika Brown

Editor: Katelyn Clark

Graphic Designer: Sana Bashir