Photo by Tim Reckmann (ccnull.de) | Licensed under CC BY 2.0.

A global study released today at the Social Innovation Summit in San Francisco reveals that while Generation Z is highly engaged with current events and eager to shape a better future, the cohort is also struggling with significant mental health challenges—driven by global conflict, climate crisis, economic instability, and persistent stigma.

The research, led by the Global Coalition for Youth Mental Health—an initiative spearheaded by UNICEF and supported by private sector partners—surveyed over 5,600 respondents aged 14 to 25 across multiple countries. Key findings underscore both the potential and vulnerability of Gen Z:

• 60% consume news more than any other content format—but many report feeling overwhelmed by it.
• 40% still experience stigma when speaking about mental health at school or work.
• Only half know where to seek support.
• Just 55% believe they have effective coping tools.
• Activities involving movement, mindfulness, and connection (e.g., walking, playing, socializing) were cited as most beneficial.

Despite these pressures, a majority remain hopeful: 6 in 10 say they want to help shape a more compassionate, resilient world.

“This data presents a sobering view of the emotional weight young people are carrying,” said Carla Haddad Mardini, Director of Private Fundraising and Partnerships at UNICEF. “But it also highlights their deep desire to engage—and the urgent need to equip them with the tools, resources, and support to thrive.”

The Coalition, backed by members such as lululemon, Spotify, Pinterest, and Zurich Insurance Group, has collectively invested over $35 million to date in global youth mental health initiatives. Recent efforts include Spotify’s “Our Minds Matter Hub,” a curated content library to support Gen Z well-being, and lululemon’s cross-sector push to expand access to wellness services.

Pinterest’s Wanji Walcott stressed the importance of safe digital spaces, while Gregory Renand of Z Zurich Foundation called on the private sector to move beyond fragmented solutions and “invest in systems that place youth at the center.”

As the UN prepares for its High-Level Meeting on Mental Health and Non-Communicable Diseases this September, the Coalition is calling for increased private sector collaboration to co-develop scalable, high-quality mental health resources for young people worldwide.