A study published in PLOS One on 27/8, analyzing data from over 10 million Americans and 40,000 British families, reveals that "psychological distress" no longer peaks in middle age. Instead, Gen Z – those in their late teens and early 20s – are experiencing record levels of despair and anxiety.

Lead author Professor David Blanchflower of Dartmouth College calls this a "global crisis," having observed similar trends in 44 countries. "Despair – the feeling that every day is mentally bad – has exploded among young people, especially young women," he said.

For decades, over 600 studies confirmed a U-shaped "unhappiness curve": people are relatively content in their 20s, become increasingly pessimistic through their 30s and 40s, reach peak unhappiness around 50, and then become happier as retirement approaches. Now, this model has morphed into a "ski slope" – where unhappiness declines with age, Blanchflower observes.

An individual experiencing psychological trauma sits on a rock by a stream seeking solace. *Photo: Expert provided*

Co-author Professor Alex Bryson of University College London explains that this shift isn't because middle-aged people are suddenly happier, but rather that today's youth carry an unprecedented mental burden. Statistics on suicide rates and substance abuse reinforce this conclusion, refuting the notion that young people are simply more open about their mental health.

Smartphones are considered a primary culprit. "There's growing evidence of a causal link between screen time and mental health, not just a correlation," Bryson analyzes.

Jonathan Haidt's bestselling book "The Coddling of the American Mind" highlighted the negative impact of smartphones on young people's psychology. Haidt points out that the sharp increase in anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicidal ideation among adolescents (especially girls) coincided with the widespread adoption of smartphones and social media (around 2012).

Social media, filled with curated images and stories of others' seemingly perfect lives, can make young people feel inadequate, leading to insecurity and depression. The pressure to present a flawless self online for likes and acceptance is immense.

The presence of smartphones and blue light from screens (especially at night) disrupts natural sleep cycles. Furthermore, the fear of missing out (FOMO) and the urge to constantly check phones keep many young people up late, leading to chronic sleep deprivation. Lack of sleep negatively impacts mood, concentration, and overall mental well-being.

Social media apps are designed to trigger the brain's dopamine system, creating instant gratification with every notification, like, or comment. This can lead to addictive behavior, especially in adolescents whose impulse control centers are still developing. Phone dependence can cause anxiety and irritability when the device is unavailable or online interaction is lacking.

However, the authors emphasize that smartphones aren't the sole cause. Their other research indicates that unhappiness is rising fastest among young people in low-quality jobs, while unemployment levels of unhappiness remains stable. Previously, having a job seemed to offer protection against poor mental health. Negative childhood experiences, such as bullying, parental loss, or witnessing divorce, also have lasting impacts.

Blanchflower suggests banning smartphones in schools and encouraging young people to engage in positive activities like dancing, hiking, and dating instead of excessive screen time. Bryson is more cautious, advocating for further research to understand the causes and develop comprehensive solutions addressing job quality and community connections.

"There's no silver bullet for this issue," Bryson concludes, emphasizing the complexity of the challenges facing younger generations.

Hoang Dung (*Times UK*)