Characteristics of Gen Z
Gen Z, also known as Zoomers, is a generation characterized by their social responsibility and activism. They are individuals born between 1997 and 2012, making them the demographic following Millennials. Unlike Millennials, who were more associated with “hustle culture,” Gen Z focuses on making positive changes through activism and social responsibility. Growing up in a digitally evolving world, they have easy access to information and have witnessed significant global events like economic crises, climate change, and the COVID-19 pandemic. This exposure has inspired them to be socially conscious and actively involved in advocating for various causes.
Social Issues That Matter to Generation Z
Generation Z is deeply concerned about several key social issues that impact society. These include healthcare access, mental health, higher education, economic security, civic engagement, racial equity, the environment, and gun violence. Among these issues, healthcare access stands out as a core concern for Gen Z. They view access to healthcare as a human right and emphasize affordability and quality improvements within the healthcare system. Mental health is another critical issue for Gen Z, with a significant portion reporting anxiety and depression compared to other generations.
Health Care Access for Gen Z
Nearly nine in 10 Gen Z individuals aged 18 to 24 consider access to healthcare a fundamental human right. However, around 17% of this age group lacked health insurance in 2022. As young adults transition into managing their own healthcare needs, they face challenges related to affordability and navigating the complex healthcare system. Gen Z values holistic healthcare approaches that address social determinants of health and prioritize self-care and efficiency. They are also more inclined towards telemedicine but may encounter privacy concerns during virtual appointments.
Mental Health Concerns
Gen Z faces a mental health crisis, with high rates of anxiety and depression compared to older age groups. They are proactive in seeking treatment for emotional challenges and are open about discussing mental health issues to reduce stigma. Technology and social media play dual roles in providing support while contributing to increased stress levels among young people. External factors like news events, societal issues, and personal finances add to the mental health burdens faced by Gen Z.
In conclusion, Generation Z exemplifies a socially conscious generation that actively engages with pressing social issues such as healthcare access and mental health while advocating for positive change in society.
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