Gen Z didn’t enter the workforce in easy times. They walked in just after a global pandemic. Now they’re navigating layoffs, AI fears, slower hiring, and constant uncertainty. What should have been a time to explore careers has turned into a pressure cooker.
A Rough Start to Working Life
For most people, early career years help build confidence and identity. But Gen Z missed out on that foundation. Remote classes replaced real offices. Internships were cancelled or cut short. Many were judged on performance without ever experiencing stable, in-person work.
According to Sanjay Desai, founder of ConsciousLeap, these early disruptions matter. When the base is shaky, self-doubt grows fast.
When Money Becomes the Main Stressor
Behind much of Gen Z’s anxiety is one simple issue: money. Rising living costs. Expensive rent in cities. And no guarantee of job security.
Young professionals often feel stuck in an endless loop of earning and spending, with little chance to save. This financial pressure shows up as burnout, poor sleep, fear of layoffs, and emotional exhaustion — even among those still employed.
Access to budgeting tools, savings options, and workplace financial wellness programmes can make a real difference. Control reduces fear.
Social Media Makes It Worse
Social media doesn’t help. It turns stress into comparison. Seeing peers get promotions, dream jobs, and “perfect” lives can make Gen Z feel constantly behind. When financial anxiety is already high, this comparison culture adds fuel to the fire. Why Wellness Apps Aren’t Enough
Many companies now offer wellness days or mental health apps. Helpful, yes. But not enough. Sanjay explains that these solutions often treat symptoms, not causes. Fear of failure, low self-worth, and financial panic still sit underneath the surface.
A Shift Toward Real Emotional Skills
The silver lining? Gen Z is talking. This generation is more open about mental health than any before. They want emotionally safe workplaces. They want honesty, not judgment.
As Sanjay puts it, psychological safety is key. Without it, young professionals won’t ask for help. And that’s why this crisis often stays hidden — showing up as quiet quitting, disengagement, or performance dips instead of open conversations.
The solution starts with listening.
