Understanding Burnout: Why Millennials and Gen Z Are Affected More Than Previous Generations
- caitlyn50
- Apr 10
- 4 min read
Burnout is a growing concern, particularly among Millennials and Gen Z. The increase in reported burnout rates is largely due to a combination of external stressors and a shift in how younger generations view mental health. In this blog post, we’ll explore the main reasons why these generations are more susceptible to burnout and how social media and the current political and financial climate are contributing factors.
What is Burnout?
Burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress, often related to work or personal responsibilities. It happens when someone feels overwhelmed, drained, and unable to meet constant demands. Over time, burnout can lead to a decrease in motivation, energy, and performance. It's not just about being tired—it's a deeper, more persistent feeling of detachment or lack of accomplishment.
Some key symptoms of burnout include:
Emotional exhaustion: Feeling drained, overwhelmed, and unable to cope with daily tasks.
Cynicism or detachment: Losing interest in work or feeling negative about responsibilities.
Reduced performance: Feeling ineffective or unproductive despite effort.
It can affect anyone, but it's most commonly linked to high-stress environments or jobs where there's a mismatch between effort and reward, lack of support, or unrealistic expectations.
Why Are Millennials and Gen Z Experiencing Higher Rates of Burnout?
There are two key factors contributing to the rise in burnout among Millennials and Gen Z.
1. Economic and Social Stressors:
Research points to three main stressors that significantly impact Millennials and Gen Z: financial concerns, political instability, and job-related stress. For young adults today, home prices have skyrocketed, student loan debt is a heavy burden, and wages have failed to keep pace with the increasing cost of living. Simultaneously, the job market has been unstable, and many employees face increasing demands at work, leading to added pressure.
In addition to these financial challenges, both generations are dealing with a polarized and unpredictable political climate. In the US and around the world, political tensions are running high, further contributing to stress.On top of all this, we can’t underestimate the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on Millennials and Gen Z. These groups were at crucial life milestones during the pandemic—whether it was graduating high school, starting careers, or building families. Experiencing such uncertainty at critical stages of life has added immense stress, and feeling overwhelmed or burned out in these circumstances is entirely understandable.
2. Greater Awareness and Openness About Mental HealthAnother reason for the rise in burnout is the increasing awareness of mental health issues among younger generations. Millennials and Gen Z are more open about mental health struggles than previous generations, which means they are more likely to recognize and seek help for burnout when it occurs.
Unlike older generations, who may push through stress or cope in maladaptive ways, younger people are more likely to share their experiences, seek therapy, and talk about their mental health openly. This openness helps to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health but also means these generations are more likely to identify when they’re struggling and take the necessary steps to heal. As a result, we’re seeing a greater awareness of stress and a more proactive approach to mental health.
Why Are These Generations Particularly Affected by the Current Financial and Political Landscape?
While we all feel the effects of the current political and financial climate, the way we respond to these stresses is often shaped by our ability to cope. It’s easier to handle uncertainty when you have a stable foundation and have experienced success in overcoming challenges. Unfortunately, Millennials and Gen Z haven't had as much time to build this foundation or gain confidence that things will work out in the long run.
These younger generations are still in the process of establishing themselves—whether it’s in their careers, finances, or personal lives. As such, they lack the same level of confidence and resilience that older generations may have developed over time. This makes them more vulnerable to the overwhelming stress caused by factors like economic instability, political unrest, and social pressures.
Additionally, as mentioned earlier, Millennials and Gen Z are more likely to recognize and address their mental health needs. Older generations may experience burnout at similar rates but are less likely to acknowledge it or seek support due to societal stigmas about mental health. For many older individuals, burnout may go unrecognized, and they may continue to push through it without ever addressing the underlying issues.
The Role of Social Media in Mental Health
One of the biggest contributors to burnout, particularly for Gen Z, is the rise of social media. Social media platforms have created an environment of constant comparison, where people compare their lives to others' seemingly perfect, curated images. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, isolation, and anxiety.
For Gen Z, who has grown up with social media as a constant presence, the pressure is especially intense. These platforms are woven into the fabric of daily life, and the constant need to stay connected and compare oneself to others can be overwhelming. When combined with the external stressors in today’s world—such as financial worries, political instability, and societal expectations—it’s no wonder that Millennials and Gen Z are struggling to cope.
In Conclusion: Understanding Burnout and Taking Action
The rise in burnout among Millennials and Gen Z is not just a result of external circumstances but also a reflection of a shift in how these generations view and address mental health. They are more open to seeking help, talking about their struggles, and taking time to recover when necessary. While this awareness is important and should be celebrated, it also means that these generations are more likely to identify burnout and take steps to address it.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, it's crucial to recognize that you're not alone. The pressures of modern life can be intense, but by acknowledging the factors contributing to your stress and seeking support, you can begin to regain balance and prevent.
Feel free to contact me for a free phone consultation—I’d love to talk with you about how we can begin this journey together.
Caitlyn Oscarson is a therapist in private practice in Campbell (San Jose), CA. She specializes in evidence-based treatment for anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder.
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