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The mental health challenges faced by Generation Z (born in 1997 or later) are reaching alarming levels, with high school and college students experiencing unprecedented levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. Unfortunately, the healthcare resources available to them are often limited. This article reviews Gen Z’s mental health statistics, explores the role of telehealth in addressing Generation Z’s mental health crisis, and offers suggestions for psychotherapists who wish to develop services to help address this urgent need. By providing accessible, personalized, and consumer-driven care options, telehealth’s popularity has the potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery for this vulnerable population.
Gen Z Mental Health Statistics
Many factors, including social media, bullying, and loneliness, contribute to mental health challenges in high school and college students. Disturbing statistics reveal the severity of the crisis. The CDC reports never-before-seen levels of hopelessness and suicidal thoughts among teens.
As Generation Z members transition from their parent’s health plans, healthcare decisions become a significant concern. Research indicates that 75% of Generation Z individuals are worried about their health, compared to only 63% of baby boomers (American Heart Association and American Diabetes Association).
The Role of Telehealth in Addressing Generation Z’s Mental Health Crisis
Given the shortage of mental health professionals in the United States, telehealth’s popularity among young people can provide a crucial solution to bridge the gap. Generation Z has demonstrated an openness to seeking mental health support, with nearly four out of ten individuals likely seeking professional help. This inclination may be attributed to many Gen Zers accessing mental health services during their K-12 years and high school.
To effectively treat this young demographic, healthcare technology needs to evolve. Generation Z views healthcare as a service and expects it to be as accessible, cost-transparent, and personalized as other services they encounter. Telehealth must meet these expectations by offering flexible care options that can be accessed on their own terms and time.
Traditionally, mental and behavioral healthcare relied on one-on-one therapeutic relationships involving hour-long counseling sessions. However, not all members of Generation Z are comfortable with or ready for this approach. Technology-driven alternatives such as interactive exercises, video, audio, or text-driven therapies allow young adults to progress at their own pace and in their preferred space. Online group therapy options can provide a sense of social connection and support.
Moreover, healthcare technology must address the loneliness and isolation prevalent among Generation Z. As a generation constantly connected through technology, they require healthcare services that meet them where they are and provide expanded access to care. With its convenience and availability, telemedicine ensures that Gen Z can access care even after falling off their parents’ health plans.
The Impact on the Healthcare System
Enabling Generation Z to take control of their mental health and well-being through accessible tools can transform the healthcare system. Neglecting or improperly managing mental health issues can lead to physical health problems, emergency department visits, and hospitalizations. By addressing mental health concerns early on, the healthcare system can reduce the overall burden on resources and improve the population’s overall well-being.
The US Surgeon General and the CDC have highlighted the youth mental health crisis as a public health concern that demands immediate attention. Student mental health is a top concern for colleges and universities, and campuses often struggle to meet the high demand for mental health services. Expanding access to mental health services through telehealth can alleviate the strain on institutions while ensuring that individual students receive the care they need.
Suggestions for Psychotherapists Seeking to Address the Gen Z Mental Health Crisis
Many behavioral health practitioners are now seeking full-time employment through telehealth. With many online employers catching the attention of the Federal Trade Commission for sharing protected health information for profit, professionals are justifiably leery of digital employers. While the more entrepreneurial clinicians may wish to develop specialized services for gen z clients, others may want to find legitimate employment with online group practices. Learn who to trust and understand your legal and ethical obligations before signing any employment agreements.
The suggestions outlined below can be helpful to both groups of clinicians:
- Understand Generation Z’s unique characteristics and experiences, such as their digital native status and exposure to societal challenges, to tailor your approach accordingly.
- Stay updated on the specific mental health challenges this demographic faces, including issues related to social media, academic pressure, and identity development.
- Cultivate cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in your therapeutic approach by recognizing and affirming their diverse backgrounds, values, and identities.
- Adapt your therapeutic techniques to suit Generation Z’s preferences and needs, incorporating technology, interactive exercises, and flexible pacing to effectively engage and connect with them.
- Specialize in telehealth, technology-assisted therapy, online counseling, and digital interventions to meet the preference for virtual care options and opportunities created by telehealth’s popularity in this group.
- Build trust and rapport by creating a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic environment, actively listening, validating their experiences, and demonstrating empathy. When using by using skills to foster a strong therapeutic alliance in telehealth.
- Maintain privacy and security in online therapy sessions, ensuring compliance with ethical and legal guidelines and utilizing secure platforms and encryption measures.
- Actively participate in mental health awareness campaigns targeting Gen Z to reduce stigma and increase awareness of available resources and support.
- Educate and destigmatize mental health issues, providing psychoeducation about common mental health challenges and promoting help-seeking behavior. Share information about Gen Z mental health statistics.
- Engage with Gen Z through social media and online platforms, utilizing these channels to share mental health tips, resources, and supportive content. Once someone enters your practice,, however, discontinue all contact through social media and keep your communications private to avoid a HIPAA violation.
- Collaborate with educational institutions and community organizations to reach Gen Z, fostering partnerships that allow for increased access to your mental health services.
- Consider offering telehealth group therapy or support groups to foster connections and peer support, creating a sense of belonging and shared experiences among Generation Z clients.
- Pursue ongoing professional development and stay informed about best practices in working with Generation Z, attending workshops, conferences, and webinars specific to their mental health needs.
- Join professional networks or associations providing resources and support for working with Gen Z, allowing networking opportunities and access to specialized knowledge.
Conclusion
Generation Z is facing a mental health crisis that requires urgent attention. Telehealth has emerged as a vital tool in providing accessible and personalized care for high school and college students. By meeting the consumer-driven expectations of this generation, telemedicine can offer flexible care options that address their unique mental health needs.
Furthermore, telehealth’s popularity can help ease the burden on healthcare resources and improve the overall well-being of Generation Z. It is crucial for healthcare leaders and educational institutions to recognize the importance of telemedicine and take proactive steps to ensure that mental health services are readily available and tailored to the needs of this vulnerable population.
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