Depression On the Rise for Gen Z: Can Hypnotherapy Help?
There are some worrying trends coming to light regarding depression, particularly amongst the young Gen Z generation, many of whom are now entering the workforce and entering the early years of adulthood. While the source of depression can vary widely from one individual to another, it is becoming abundantly clear that depression is indeed skyrocketing amongst the younger generations in the past few years.
Is Depression on the Rise?
Relatively recent studies such as this one from the United States are coming to similar conclusions: depression on the whole is on the rise, but particularly amongst those aged 12-25. Whereas for older generations aged 25+, depression rates from 2009-2017 are below 10%, the 16-21 age brackets have seen a dramatic rise in depression from below 10% in 2009 to 15% or higher in 2017. In other words, around 1 in 7 American Gen Z young adults suffer from some sort of depression, up from 1 in 10-11 just a (relatively) short decade ago.
But What About in Australia?
It would not be fully appropriate to map the findings of these studies, mostly conducted in the US, with behavioural conditions in individuals here in Australia. Nevertheless, the Australian Bureau of Statistics found that in 2020-2021 nearly two in every five people aged between 16-24 had a 12-month mental disorder (such as depression).
Make of these findings what you will, but it seems as though here in Australia we have a real epidemic of depression and other mental disorders, particularly amongst our youngest generations now entering the labour market.
What is Causing the Rise in Depression?
There are many potential causes for this sudden rise in depression, some of which may contribute more than others, depending on the individual. Many claim that the explosion of social media and the constant need for validation and attention contribute, some claim that the lockdowns implemented by government agencies during the pandemic years have reduced face-to-face social interactions. Whatever the underlying cause(s) may be, what should matter is that effective treatment is given so that individuals can live a full and satisfying lifestyle.
Treatment for Depression and Mood Disorders
One of the first and most important steps to treating depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders is to recognise that there is a problem in the first place that requires treatment. Following this, it is important that the individual or their caretaker (parent/guardian) seek professional medical opinions regarding the problem. A professional diagnosis can, in some cases, save the individual’s life, but in almost all cases the medical professional can provide treatment solutions.
In addition to treatment (which may or may not include medication), many individuals can benefit from hypnotherapy. A professionally-trained hypnotherapist can provide support and relief for things like improving self-esteem and mood, confidence, reducing smoking (which may stem from depression), anxiety, problems with concentration or attention span, or dealing with pain.
Hypnotherapy has been shown to work as an ancillary treatment for depression and mood disorders, but it must be emphasised that hypnotherapy tends to work best in conjunction with other forms of treatment, such as behavioural therapy or medication. Some chronic mental illnesses such as severe bipolar disorder or schizophrenia often cannot (or should not) be treated with hypnotherapy but professional medical treatment instead.
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