Have you ever wondered what it feels like to be ready to take on the world, only to find the door to opportunity locked tight? For many young adults today, this isn’t just a fleeting thought—it’s their reality. A growing number of Generation Z, those born between 1997 and 2012, are grappling with a mental health crisis that’s keeping them out of work, school, or training. It’s a troubling trend that’s sparking concern across the globe, and honestly, it’s hard not to feel a pang of worry for what this means for their future—and ours.
The Rise of a Workless Generation
The numbers paint a stark picture. Recent studies show that around 13.4% of young people aged 16 to 24 are classified as NEET—not in education, employment, or training. That’s a jump from just a year ago, and it’s the highest level in a decade. But what’s behind this? Is it just a lack of jobs, or is something deeper at play? In my view, it’s a mix of both, with mental health challenges acting as a massive roadblock for many.
The longer young people stay disconnected from work or education, the harder it becomes to re-engage.
– Business research expert
This disconnection isn’t just about missing out on a paycheck. It’s about losing confidence, skills, and a sense of purpose. For Gen Z, the pressure to succeed in a fast-paced, social media-driven world can feel crushing. Add in the lingering effects of the pandemic, and you’ve got a recipe for what some are calling a lost generation.
Why Mental Health Is the Core Issue
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: mental health. Since the pandemic, anxiety levels have skyrocketed. Research indicates that 23% of working-age adults reported high anxiety in 2023, a sharp rise from pre-2019 levels. For young people, the numbers are even more alarming. Depression, anxiety, and stress among those aged 16–24 have surged by 168% over the past two decades. That’s not just a statistic—it’s a signal that something’s seriously wrong.
But why? Some point to the isolation of lockdowns, others to the constant comparison fueled by social media. There’s also a rise in diagnoses of conditions like ADHD and autism, with ADHD medication prescriptions doubling since 2018. Are we seeing a true increase in these conditions, or is it a case of overdiagnosis? Perhaps it’s a bit of both. Either way, these challenges are keeping young people out of the workforce, and that’s a problem we can’t ignore.
- Anxiety: A leading cause of worklessness, with many citing it as a barrier to employment.
- Neurodiverse conditions: Diagnoses like ADHD and autism are on the rise, complicating job searches.
- Lack of confidence: Prolonged unemployment erodes self-esteem, making it harder to apply for jobs.
I’ve always believed that mental health is like the foundation of a house—if it’s shaky, everything else crumbles. For Gen Z, that foundation is under serious strain, and it’s affecting their ability to build stable, fulfilling lives.
The Economic and Social Ripple Effects
This isn’t just a personal crisis—it’s an economic one. The surge in mental health-related benefit claims is straining public finances. Experts predict that by the end of the decade, 25% of income tax could go toward funding sickness benefits if trends continue. That’s a massive burden, and it’s not sustainable. But beyond the numbers, there’s a human cost. Young people who feel left behind are more likely to struggle in relationships, both romantic and platonic, which ties this issue to Couple Life.
Think about it: if you’re battling anxiety or feel stuck in a cycle of unemployment, it’s tough to show up as your best self in a relationship. The stress of not having a job can strain communication, lower self-worth, and create tension with partners. In my experience, financial instability is one of the top reasons couples argue, and for Gen Z, this is a growing reality.
Unemployment doesn’t just affect your wallet—it impacts your relationships and sense of identity.
– Career counselor
The ripple effects don’t stop there. A generation that’s disconnected from work is less likely to contribute to society, innovate, or build strong communities. It’s a vicious cycle: mental health struggles lead to unemployment, which worsens mental health, and so on. Breaking this cycle requires action, and fast.
What’s Being Done to Help?
Thankfully, there are efforts underway to address this crisis. Governments and organizations are starting to take notice, rolling out initiatives to support young people. One example is a new Youth Guarantee Scheme, aimed at 18- to 21-year-olds. The goal? Provide access to training, apprenticeships, or job support to get young people back on track. It’s a promising start, but there’s a catch: details are still fuzzy, and funding questions linger.
Businesses are also being called to step up. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) could play a huge role, but they need incentives. Hiring young people, especially those with mental health challenges or special needs, can be resource-intensive. Training, pastoral care, and higher turnover rates all add up. That’s why some are pushing for government programs to “derisk” hiring for businesses, making it easier to take on Gen Z talent.
| Initiative | Goal | Challenge |
| Youth Guarantee Scheme | Provide training and job support | Unclear funding and execution |
| Business incentives | Encourage hiring of NEETs | High costs for SMEs |
| Mental health programs | Reduce anxiety and stress | Limited access and stigma |
These efforts are a step in the right direction, but they’re not enough on their own. What’s needed is a collaborative approach—governments, businesses, and communities working together to create real change.
How Relationships Tie Into the Solution
Here’s where things get personal. Relationships—whether with a partner, family, or friends—can be a lifeline for young people struggling with mental health and unemployment. A supportive partner can boost confidence, offer encouragement, and help navigate tough times. But it’s a two-way street. If one partner is grappling with anxiety or joblessness, it can strain the relationship, especially if communication falters.
In my view, fostering healthy relationships is a key part of the solution. Couples who communicate openly about their struggles—whether it’s mental health or career setbacks—are better equipped to weather the storm. It’s not just about romantic relationships, either. Strong friendships and family ties can provide the emotional support needed to take on job applications or training programs.
- Encourage open dialogue: Talk about mental health and career goals without judgment.
- Build a support network: Lean on partners, friends, or mentors for motivation.
- Set small goals together: Celebrate progress, like applying for a job or completing a course.
Relationships aren’t a cure-all, but they can make a huge difference. When you’ve got someone in your corner, it’s easier to face the world, even when it feels overwhelming.
Looking Ahead: Hope for Gen Z
So, where do we go from here? The challenges facing Gen Z are daunting, but they’re not insurmountable. With the right support—mental health resources, job training, and strong relationships—young people can break free from the cycle of worklessness. It’s going to take effort from all of us: policymakers, employers, and communities. But I’m optimistic. Gen Z is resilient, creative, and full of potential. They just need a fair shot.
Maybe you’re a young adult reading this, feeling stuck. Or maybe you’re in a relationship with someone who’s struggling. Either way, know this: you’re not alone, and there’s hope. Small steps—like reaching out for support or setting one career goal—can lead to big changes. And for those of us watching this unfold, let’s do our part to listen, support, and advocate for a brighter future.
The greatest asset of any generation is its people. Let’s not let Gen Z slip through the cracks.
– Youth advocate
As I reflect on this, I can’t help but think about the power of connection. Whether it’s a job, a relationship, or a sense of purpose, it all comes down to building bridges. Let’s help Gen Z cross them.
