Generation Z, which includes those born between 1997 and 2012, are the first digital natives. As such, they have grown up surrounded by technology, social media and varying distractions that their predecessors did not experience. This has created a unique demographic of workers who must adapt to an ever-changing workplace.
In terms of stress, Gen Z brings its own set of challenges. How does this generation handle the pressures of work? Why is it so stressed? And what methods can be employed to help them cope?
What Causes Gen Z Stress in the Workplace?
The causes of stress among this generation vary greatly. From being overwhelmed with tasks to feeling undervalued in their roles, some of the common stressors include:
- Unrealistic Expectations: Modern workplaces face intense competition and high demands, meaning Gen Zers often feel pressure to perform at their best. This leads to feelings of burnout, fatigue and low motivation.
- Lack of Flexibility: Many organizations fail to provide Gen Zers with the flexibility needed for productivity and mental health. Not having enough vacation time or being restricted to rigid schedules can cause them to become overworked and stressed.
- Competition: Gen Zers were raised around competitive environments due to the prevalence of social media and reality TV. This results in an environment where everyone is vying for recognition or promotion, leading to increased levels of stress.
- Technology Overload: Generation Zers are constantly bombarded with notifications, emails, messages, and other forms of communication. This creates an overload of information, leading to feelings of anxiety and overwhelm.
How Can Organizations Help Mitigate Gen Z Stress Levels?
Organizations can take steps to better support Gen Zers in the workplace, reducing the amount of stress they experience. Some of the most effective methods include:
- Providing Support: Organizations should create an environment where employees feel supported by their colleagues and superiors. They should ensure that their team members have access to resources like counseling services, online courses and mentorship programs.
- Fostering Collaboration: Working together as a team can help reduce stress levels and foster creativity. Employers should provide collaborative opportunities for Gen Zers to come up with creative solutions and to share ideas and experiences.
- Encouraging Balance: Organizations should prioritize balance between work and life outside of the office. Doing so helps reduce stress and prevents burnout, while also increasing engagement and loyalty.
- Focusing on Wellness: Companies should promote wellness initiatives that focus on physical and mental health. Offering benefits such as meditation classes or flexible work hours can go a long way in helping Gen Z manage their stress.
Generation Z is faced with unique stressors in today's workplace. It is important for organizations to recognize these issues and take steps to address them. By providing support, fostering collaboration, encouraging balance and focusing on wellness initiatives, employers can help Gen Zers to manage their stress and succeed in their careers.
