Gen Z, the cohort born roughly between 1997 and 2012, is entering the workforce amidst a unique confluence of challenges.

While known for their tech-savviness, entrepreneurial spirit, and social consciousness, Gen Z workers face distinct struggles that impact their mental, physical, and financial wellbeing.

Struggles with mental and physical health

One of the most pressing concerns for Gen Z is the state of their mental health. A 2023 study by the American Psychological Association found that Gen Z adults are significantly more likely to report their mental health as fair or poor compared to older generations.

The constant connectivity of the digital age—coupled with the pressure to maintain a perfect online persona—contributes to increased anxiety and depression.

Furthermore, the uncertainty of the future marked by climate change, political polarisation, and economic instability weighs heavily on their minds.

“Gen Z is emerging as the most stressed demographic in the workplace, and struggles mightily to cope,” said Phil Johnson, a former leadership and emotional intelligence adviser at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

“They are becoming increasingly sensitive to the rapid changes and innovations that are reshaping our world,” he said.

The physical health of Gen Z workers is also a cause for concern.

Sedentary lifestyles, often associated with screen time and desk jobs, contribute to health problems such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and musculoskeletal disorders.

Moreover, the pressure to succeed and the “always on” work culture of the digital age can lead to burnout and sleep deprivation, further exacerbating these issues.

Also Read: Always on? How hustle culture hurts wellbeing

Financial uncertainty

Financial insecurity is another major stressor for Gen Z. Many are burdened with student loan debt, rising housing costs, and a competitive job market.

According to a 2024 survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, the average student loan debt for Gen Z graduates is over US$37,000. This financial burden delays major life milestones such as homeownership and starting a family, further contributing to their anxiety.

Disillusionment at work

Gen Z also faces workplace-specific struggles. Many enter the workforce with high expectations for meaningful work, work-life balance, and opportunities for growth.

“Gen Z has distinct preferences, expectations, and behaviours that often clash with traditional work environments,” said Bobbi Hartshorne, chief wellbeing officer at WellWise.

“As a result, many organisations are experiencing high rates of voluntary and involuntary turnover among Gen Z employees, creating a plethora of short and long-term challenges including uncertainty in workforce planning and organisational cohesion,” Hartshorne said.

The wellbeing advocate cited data from a Deloitte survey that said nearly 30% of Gen Z workers leave their jobs within the first year.

Apart from their propensity to change jobs quickly, Gen Z workers are also among the most vocal on social media whenever they encounter rigid corporate structures, limited advancement opportunities, or a lack of recognition for their contributions.

This disconnect between expectations and reality can lead to disillusionment and dissatisfaction at work.

Also Read: Quit-Tok: The Gen Z trend exposing toxic workplaces

Yet the frustration is felt by Gen Z’s older peers, too. Countless articles have been written about the pitfalls of managing Gen Z.

Helen Day, founder of Positive Leaders, empathises with managers of Gen Z workers: “As a seasoned leader, you’ve navigated countless challenges. But leading Gen Z? It’s a whole new ballgame that’s leaving you feeling out of your depth.

“You’ve always focused on results and the bottom line—that’s how business works, right? But your Gen Z team members are constantly questioning the ‘why’ behind every task. They want to know how their work impacts society, the environment, and pretty much everything else under the sun,” Day said.

There are several reasons businesses feel Gen Z isn’t meeting performance expectations, Hartshorne added.

“Among these, managers frequently cite a ‘lack of motivation or initiative’. However, this perception may stem from businesses failing to tap into what truly motivates Gen Z, rather than a lack of motivation overall. Organisations are often quick to fire rather than collaborate, missing the chance to engage these workers in fruitful partnerships,” Hartshorne said.

How Gen Z can navigate difficulties

Despite these obstacles, Gen Z are leveraging their strengths to find their way in the world. Here are some strategies to help navigate difficulty:

1) Prioritise mental health

Mindfulness practices, therapy, and support groups can help manage anxiety and depression. Setting boundaries between work and personal life is crucial to prevent burnout.

2) Develop financial literacy

Budgeting, saving, and investing wisely can help Gen Z manage debt and achieve financial stability. Seeking guidance from financial advisers can provide valuable insights and strategies.

3) Embrace a healthy lifestyle

Incorporating physical activity into daily routines and prioritising sleep can significantly improve physical and mental wellbeing. Gen Z should be mindful of their screen time and cultivate healthy habits.

4) Advocate for change in the workplace

Gen Z actively advocates for workplace cultures that prioritise mental health, work-life balance, and employee wellbeing. They can leverage their collective voice to push for change and create a more supportive and inclusive work environment.

5) Build a strong support system

Connecting with peers, mentors, and family members can provide emotional support and guidance. Sharing experiences and seeking advice from others can help navigate challenges and build resilience.

Gen Z workers face significant challenges in 2024, which affect their mental, physical, and financial wellbeing.

However, they are a generation known for their adaptability and determination. Prioritising self-care, developing essential skills, and advocating for change can empower Gen Z to overcome obstacles and thrive in the world of work.

Their resilience and innovative spirit offer hope for a future where work is not just a source of income but also a fulfilling and meaningful aspect of their lives.