The effects of generation anxiety on post-secondary mental health outcomes: Implications for service providers and educators

Despite increased access to mental health services, Generation Z reports the highest rates of depression, anxiety, and stress. Guided by Life Course Theory, this study examined how environmental, technological, and socioeconomic conditions influence youth mental health, with a focus on generation-specific anxieties related to climate change, artificial intelligence, and financial concerns. A mixed-methods design was employed, drawing on quantitative data from 586 post-secondary students using standardized mental health and anxiety scales, along with qualitative responses to open-ended questions. Pearson correlations and stepwise linear regressions revealed that financial anxiety was the strongest predictor of depression, anxiety, and stress. Eco-anxiety and AI anxiety also contributed to mental health outcomes in nuanced ways. Although proposed moderators did not significantly alter these relationships, factors such as social isolation, social support, and daily internet use were independently associated with mental health outcomes. Qualitative data reinforced these findings, with students expressing concern about financial insecurity, environmental degradation, and the impact of AI on job security. These findings highlight the need for clinicians, educators, and policymakers to develop targeted supports and policy responses that address the broader structural pressures affecting the psychological well-being of Generation Z.

Authors

• Tahir, Aleena
• University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education

• Generation Z
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Stress
• Climate change
• Artificial intelligence
• Finances
• Social media
• Social Isolation
• Social support

Identifier

hdl:10133/7132

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:opus.uleth.ca:10133/7132