Understanding How Gen Z Feels in the Digital World: Exploring Mental Health Challenges in Shillong, Meghalaya

Abstract

This research study explores the “Understanding how Gen Z feels in the digital world: Exploring mental health challenges in Shillong, Meghalaya” the study investigates on the Generation Z understanding of the digital world in exploration to mental health challenges face by them. Through qualitative interviews and surveys the research examines the extend of how the digital world have or can shape these mental health challenges. Research Objectives: (1.) To explore the Generation Z individual perceive and articulate their experiences of mental health challenges in the digital world. (2.) To uncover the challenges and emotional responses of Gen Z individuals based on their digital habits and online behaviour’s. (3.) To generate recommendations that can be drawn from the narratives of Gen Z participants to enhance mental health support services targeted towards the digital well-being of this generation. The findings reveal that by focuses on enhancing accessibility and availability of mental health support for young individuals through digital means. It emphasizes providing round-the-clock services, telehealth options, and user-friendly platforms. Strategies like mobile apps for therapy sessions and crisis intervention services are highlighted for Gen Z individuals. The research proposes destigmatizing mental health, ensuring data security, and offering reliable information online. Personalized treatment plans, AI-driven assessments, and virtual reality for exposure therapy are key aspects. Tailoring services to diverse needs, multilingual support, and continuous feedback mechanisms are emphasized. Encouraging help-seeking behavior involves destigmatizing help-seeking, promoting self-care, and using peer support networks. Strategies like targeted advertising, anonymous helplines, and mental health education in schools are crucial for promoting mental health support seeking.