Reports often highlight that Gen Z is the most aware of mental health, yet they are also the most prone to feeling exhausted. This contradiction stems from a combination of factors linked to their modern lifestyle.
Several causes have contributed to the widespread feeling of chronic fatigue among a generation that is supposed to be in the prime of its life. These include economic and social conditions, as well as pressures related to excessive digital consumption.
Prepared by: Iman Mohammed
Reasons Behind Gen Z’s Exhaustion
Research suggests that while Gen Z may be more aware of mental health, this awareness itself can lead to overthinking, fear, and anxiety. However, their exhaustion is not merely a personality trait—it is driven by real-life economic and social changes, such as:
Cost of Living Pressures
According to a 2025 Deloitte report, the rising cost of living is the main concern for Gen Z. Multiple global economic crises have created a gap between wages and basic living expenses such as housing and education.
Financial Insecurity
Studies show that many Gen Z individuals live in constant anxiety about covering their monthly expenses. This stress extends beyond mental fatigue, pushing them to work longer hours, leading to physical exhaustion and a persistent sense of burnout.
Difficulty Planning for the Future
Due to economic pressures, long-term planning has become increasingly difficult. A decade ago, young people could save money, buy property, or achieve full financial independence. Today, this feels out of reach, creating frustration and fatigue.
Declining Mental Health
The American Psychological Association (APA) reports that Gen Z experiences the highest stress levels related to global issues. They are a generation raised during ongoing global conflicts, constantly exposed to them through social media.
Fear of the End of the World
Accumulating political and environmental crises have led many young people to feel that the world is heading toward disaster. This creates emotional exhaustion, as they feel responsible for saving the planet while still trying to build their own lives.
Impact of the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound effect on Gen Z. The social isolation it caused continues to impact their social skills and adaptability, making everyday interactions more mentally draining than before.
Workplace Burnout
Work culture has changed dramatically. While Gen Z seeks work environments that respect mental health, reality often falls short. Reports show that burnout is one of the defining characteristics of Gen Z in the workforce.
Always-On Culture
Digital communication tools have blurred the boundaries of work. There is no clear end to the workday, and many feel pressure to respond to emails and messages at all times, preventing true mental rest.
Search for Meaning
Gen Z is more informed than previous generations and seeks purpose and value in their work. They reject toxic environments, but the tension between financial needs and personal fulfillment creates significant psychological stress.
Digital Fatigue
Gen Z experiences a unique kind of exhaustion—digital fatigue. While technology is essential to their lives, excessive social media use is strongly linked to increased anxiety.
The Comparison Trap
Constant exposure to idealized versions of others’ lives leads to continuous self-evaluation. The pursuit of perfection consumes mental energy and reduces self-satisfaction.
Information Overload
The constant flow of information and short-form videos has shortened attention spans, making tasks that require deep focus feel more difficult and tiring.
Sleep Disorders
Finally, the biological aspect cannot be ignored. Continuous screen use, especially late at night, disrupts melatonin production, leading to poor sleep quality and ongoing fatigue.
Conclusion
Addressing this exhaustion requires institutions and societies to rethink work models, provide real support for mental health, and reduce the economic pressures placed on young people.
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