Since Covid, mental health issues have surged among Generation Z. French data shows psychiatric hospitalizations rose sharply for young adults and teens. This points to a deeper problem with how society shapes young people's sense of self.
The mental health crisis has grown loud since the Covid years. It affects all of society but hits Generation Z the hardest. Those born from 1997 to 2013 now deal with more stress and illness than before. In France, hospital stays for mental health rose 106 percent among 20 to 24 year olds in 2021 and 2022. The increase was even greater for 15 to 19 year olds at 163 percent compared to the prior decade.
This trend links to the commodified self. Young people learn to see themselves as products to be sold online and in daily life. They face constant pressure to look perfect and gain approval from others. When real experiences fall short of the ideal image, it creates deep feelings of failure and anxiety that lead to breakdown.
The collapse appears built into modern systems that put profit first. Social media and consumer culture push young people toward endless self promotion. Without real support or change in these forces, more of this generation will suffer. Society needs to address these roots to help young people find balance and health again.
Original Author: Renaud Beauchard | Source: Brownstone Institute
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