Gen Z faces emotional and mental health challenges linked to heavy social media use

Recent Italian research finds that only one in four members of Generation Z can recognize and manage their emotions, and the cohort shows higher impulsivity and difficulty expressing affection. Experts attribute these traits partly to the constant digital stimulation of smartphones, tablets and social platforms.

A separate study presented by neuroscientist Jared Horvath suggests a possible decline of 2‑4 IQ points in Gen Z, alongside a 20% rise in anxiety and depression. Around 95% of adolescents use at least one social network, with 40% of children aged 8‑12 accessing them regularly. Countries such as Australia, Indonesia and Portugal have already banned social‑media access for those under 16, while the EU is considering age‑verification tools.

Researchers stress that while the causal link between social‑media use and cognitive or emotional decline remains unsettled, the high exposure rates are prompting calls for digital‑education programmes and policy measures to mitigate potential harms.