Gen Z has Become the “Loneliest Generation”
By Sabine Bos
Edited by Olivia Ural
New research shows that Gen Z, those aged between 16-24, are the ‘loneliest’ generation.
Generally speaking, as you get older, people tend to become more isolated. Several factors can explain this trend, including the loss of social connections, health issues, and retirement. Today, Gen Z are either still students or employed, which - in theory - provides them with ample support. They’re also known as “the generation who are most open to talking about their mental health.” (Gladwell).
So, what’s stopping them from forming meaningful social connections?
The “loneliness epidemic” can be attributed to the rise of the digital world. Automation and technology may improve the convenience of our lives, but it also significantly reduces daily social interactions. From self-checkout machines at supermarkets and food delivery apps to mobile games and streaming services, the things we used to leave our house for can now be done at the click of a button.
This not only applies to chores and entertainment but their ability to communicate. Social media, ironically, undermines the very connectivity it promises. Obsessing over someone’s location on Snap Map, stressing about being ‘left on read’ or ‘ghosted,’ and over analyzing the reasons why someone ‘blocked’ or ‘unfollowed’ you are anything but social. Nonetheless, they are normalised.
But why Gen Z? Why aren’t millennials and Gen X aren’t as heavily impacted? Gen Z spends an average of 6 hours a day on their phones, with half of that time dedicated to social media. In contrast, Millennials average 2 hours and 16 minutes of social media daily, while Gen X and Baby Boomers spend anywhere between 40 minutes to an hour. (Mahmoud).
Gen Z practically grew up with social media, while older generations integrated this technology later into their everyday lives. Gen-Z faced significant challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic, being physically and socially isolated during the years of their adolescence when social interactions should have been at their peak (Time Wellness Georgia). It must be noted that the solutions to this issue are easier said than done. If anything, our “addiction to our screens makes it easier to withdraw from real life.” (Gladwell)
If you feel negatively impacted by social media or align with the outcomes of its impact discussed in this article, consider the following suggestions to relieve you of the loneliness induced by our phones:
Find a balance with the digital world. Start by setting realistic time limits on the platforms you use most to prevent you from endlessly scrolling.
Build offline communities by engaging in new or old hobbies like group sports or art lessons. These activities can help build connections with those who have similar interests.
As I discussed in my last article about the stigma around asking for help, never feel judged or afraid to seek support from professionals if you are feeling emotionally overwhelmed. It’s always better to talk with someone about your thoughts than to be isolated with them.
Works Cited
Gladwell, Tilda. “What's Making Gen Z The ‘Loneliest Generation’?” SOUK, 28 August 2024, https://www.shoutoutuk.org/2024/08/28/whats-making-gen-z-the-loneliest-generation/. Accessed 1 December 2024.
“Is Gen Z the Loneliest Generation?” Time Wellness Georgia, 25 November 2024, https://timewellnessga.com/is-gen-z-the-loneliest-generation/. Accessed 1 December 2024.
Mahmoud, Esraa. “Unveiling the Shocking Truth About Your Time Spent on Social Media!” Profile Tree, 5 May 2024, https://profiletree.com/the-shocking-time-spent-on-social-media-statistics/. Accessed 1 December 2024.
