Breaking stigmas: Gen Z's approach to mental health and self-care
Social media platforms like TikTok were captivated by the slang term "delulu", which was one of the 2024 trends that had us in a chokehold. The terms "demure" and "mindful" also trended.
These trendy phrases exploded into mainstream Gen Z vocabulary. But beneath the humour, delulu hints at something deeper: a cultural shift in how we think about mental health, boundaries and self-care.
The rise of terms like “delulu” reflects a generational shift in how we approach mental health.
@muricanmike Replying to @user815884267393 I did not know this English word until I heard @Maximbady using it in his videos! He is absolutely hilarious. This is a Gen Z slang word that you’ll see a lot young people use when speaking English. I use it too, so you can try it too! #english #studyenglish #learnenglish #learnenglishonline #studyenglishonline #englishclass #practicalenglish #englishconversations #conversationalenglish #englishtips #improveenglish #improveyourenglish #englishteacher #englishlearning #영어 #영어선생님 #영어수업 #영어연습 #영어공부 ♬ original sound - Murican Mike
Gen Z, often praised for their candour and authenticity, has embraced the idea of openly discussing struggles and prioritising mental health hygiene. They’ve made it clear: taking care of your mental health is no longer a taboo - it’s a necessity.
One of the most striking aspects of Gen Z’s attitude toward mental health is their unapologetic commitment to work-life balance.
As a millennial, I’ve struggled with the idea of setting boundaries. The hustle culture we grew up with told us that success comes from relentless effort, often at the expense of our well-being. But Gen Z’s are different - they’re rewriting the rules.
A close friend of mine, who happens to be part of Gen Z, puts it perfectly: “I’m working to live, not living to work.” This sentiment has become a mantra for many in her generation.
Unlike millennials, who often find themselves juggling work, personal life, and mental health with an overwhelming sense of guilt and burnout rates that are through the roof.
@drranganchatterjee HOW TO REMOVE THE STIGMA? This week in the UK is Mental Health Awareness Week. How do we remove the stigma around mental health? By talking about it. By being vulnerable and sharing. On this week’s brand new episode of my ‘Feel Better, Live More’ podcast, I spoke to the wonderful Dr Gabor Maté. We had a very special conversation where we discussed: 👉🏾 the ROOT CAUSE of the current mental health epidemic. 👉🏾 the CRITICAL importance of the parent-child relationship 👉🏾 the importance of expressing vulnerability 👉🏾 And, Gabor’s recent live interview with Prince Harry, which received a significant amount of negative press. What really happened and how did Gabor cope with the fallout afterwards? Have you listened yet? What did you think? Please do share any thoughts! And, if you agree with the sentiment in this short video clip, drop a ❤️ below ⭐️ Please note this is a SHORT CLIP from EPISODE 362 of the 'Feel Better, Live More' podcast with Gabor Maté. To listen or watch the FULL conversation with Gabor - and put this clip in PERSPECTIVE - click the link in the drchatterjee bio above, or search for 'Dr Chatterjee Gabor Maté' in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or enjoy wherever you get your podcasts. #drchatterjee #feelbetterlivemore #gabormate #mentalhealthawarenessweek #mentalhealthstigma ♬ original sound - Dr Rangan Chatterjee
The result? A generation that is not only more attuned to their mental health but also unafraid to speak up when something no longer serves them, whether it’s a toxic workplace, unhealthy relationships or unattainable societal expectations.
How has social media helped de-stigmatising mental health
Social media has played a pivotal role in normalising mental health discussions. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter have become virtual safe spaces where people can share personal stories, offer advice, and connect with others who face similar challenges.
For me, TikTok was a game-changer. As someone who has battled depression and severe anxiety, I used to feel paralysed by the fear of judgement. Would every misstep I made be attributed to my mental health struggles?
But then, I came across countless TikTok creators who openly shared their experiences. They didn’t just talk about their struggles; they named them, shamed the stigma, and turned their vulnerabilities into strengths.
@charnaenr im hoping that we can see more discussions about this to get rid of the stigma! ✨ #blackwomenmentalhealth #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #mentalillness #health #bipolar2 #bipolardisorder #bipolarawareness ♬ original sound - CharNae✨
Watching these videos helped me realise that mental health challenges aren’t monsters to be feared, they’re parts of our lives that can be managed with the right tools and support.
According to Psychology Today, younger generations are coming into therapy more informed and open than ever before.
This shift is largely due to the accessibility of mental health content on social media, where therapists, advocates, and individuals share strategies for coping, managing anxiety and healing from trauma.
As Dr Jonice Webb, author of “Breaking the Cycle: The 6 Stages of Healing from Childhood Family Trauma”, explains, “Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have given mental health professionals a direct way to engage with audiences, breaking down barriers to access and normalising conversations about conditions like anxiety, depression, and ADHD.”
Thanks to this increased openness, therapy is no longer seen as a last resort or something to be ashamed of.
Among Gen Z, it’s often viewed as a critical tool for emotional well-being. They’re not afraid to seek help, and they’re encouraging others to do the same.
According to the book, issues like trauma, addiction, and family dynamics continue to carry a stigma in certain circles, even as anxiety and depression are more openly discussed.
This highlights the importance of continuing to push for equity in mental health care. It’s not just about normalising therapy, it’s about ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, has access to it.
Why do these conversations matter
At its core, the growing acceptance of mental health discussions is about more than just therapy or social media trends. It’s about creating a culture where people feel safe acknowledging their struggles without fear of judgment.
Conversations about trauma, anxiety, and depression are essential to healing. But as a society, we’re still learning how to navigate them, especially when they intersect with relationships or family dynamics.
It’s one thing to admit you’ve experienced trauma; it’s another to address the roles others may have played in it.
Gen Z’s approach to mental health offers a valuable lesson: It’s okay to prioritise yourself. Whether it’s through therapy, setting boundaries, or simply being open about your struggles, taking care of your mental health is an act of strength, not weakness.