Decoding Gen Z: Unpacking and Understanding the Mental Health Needs of Tomorrow's Wealth Generators
In this podcast episode, Oliver welcomes Samir Ahmed of New Wave Wellness back, with Sami speaking from his vacation location in the Lake District, UK, where he's enjoying a relaxing break and nature activities.
Oliver & Sami delve into various topics, focusing on the unique needs and challenges of Generation Z, especially around their career choices and mental health concerns. Key themes include work-life balance, freelancing, the impact of social media, and the evolving workplace. They also discuss the concepts of imposter syndrome, burnout, addiction (particularly vaping), and the importance of mindfulness and staying present. The conversation emphasizes the necessity for employers to adapt to attract and retain young talent. There's a mix of personal anecdotes and professional insights throughout, aiming to provide valuable lessons for both mental health professionals and business leaders.
Key Takeaways:
- Work-Life Balance and Freelancing: Gen Z prioritises work-life balance and freelancing due to the instability they've experienced growing up. This generation values the freedom and flexibility that freelancing offers, enabled by gig economy platforms like Fiverr.
- Challenges for Employers: Employers must adapt to attract and retain Gen Z talent by prioritizing employee satisfaction and well-being. Offering permanent roles with opportunities for personal branding and skill development is key.
- The Rise of the "Head of People": The emergence of the "Head of People" role signifies the growing importance of company culture and employee well-being. This role focuses on fostering a positive work environment and addressing the needs of employees.
- Mental Health Concerns: Imposter syndrome and burnout are major challenges for Gen Z. Imposter syndrome stems from self-doubt and fear of failure, while burnout results from the constant pressure to perform.
- The Power of the Subconscious Mind: Addressing the subconscious mind through techniques like mindfulness and hypnosis can help individuals overcome limiting beliefs and achieve a state of flow.
- Personal Disclosure in Therapy: As a developing break from the past, a tendency now for Gen Z clients to seek personal experiences from therapists, especially those with industry knowledge. This highlights the importance of building rapport and trust with this generation.
- Additional Concerns: Addiction, particularly to vapes, is a growing concern for Gen Z. Other issues include difficulty switching off from work, public speaking anxiety, and a lack of direction and purpose.
- The Importance of Mindfulness: While the term "mindfulness" can be off-putting, the practice of being present and fully engaged in the task at hand is crucial for mental well-being.
A passionate Hypnotherapist that works in the corporate space for individuals and companies that are looking to maximise their potential through deep resetting of the subconscious mind.
