Archive · 10 Oct 2026
Gen Z's Always-Online Life Linked to Rising Anxiety
Many young people feel stressed because they are connected to the internet so much.
One doctor calls the constant feeling of being on alert “ambient anxiety.”
News, school pressures and worries about the future can add to that stress.
Social media may make people compare themselves with others.
Late-night screen use and frequent notifications can also affect sleep and focus.
Signs of a problem can include worrying a lot, feeling irritable or losing interest in things.
Doctors suggest taking breaks from phones, getting outside, staying active and spending time with people in person.
They also say to ask a professional for help when stress starts affecting everyday life.
Psychiatrists cited anxiety, depressive symptoms, burnout, sleep problems and concentration difficulties among concerns affecting young people.
Global news, academic competition, career uncertainty and pressure to succeed early may contribute to what one doctor called “ambient anxiety.”
Doctors said social media can intensify comparison and expose users to constant notifications and unrealistic lifestyle and beauty standards.
Warning signs include persistent worry, irritability, sleep changes, poor concentration, withdrawal and loss of interest.
Suggested steps include regular sleep, physical activity, offline time, screen-free breaks and seeking professional help early.
- Who
- Gen Z and other young people; two consultant psychiatrists, Dr Rahul Mathur and Dr Apurva Tiwari, discussed the concerns.
- What
- The article describes how constant connectivity and social media may contribute to anxiety and other mental health concerns.
- When
- No specific date is stated.
- Where
- Indore, Madhya Pradesh, is given as the dateline.
- Why
- The article points to social comparison, constant stimulation, global news, academic competition, career uncertainty and other pressures.
- Location
- Indore, Madhya Pradesh
- Experts quoted
- Dr Rahul Mathur and Dr Apurva Tiwari, consultant psychiatrists
- Screen-time recommendation
- Switch off screens 60–90 minutes before bedtime
- Break recommendation
- Take 5–10-minute phone-free breaks
- Possible warning signs
- Persistent worry, irritability, sleep changes, poor concentration, withdrawal and loss of interest
- Recommended supports
- Regular sleep, outdoor activity, offline time, physical activity, real-life connections and early professional help