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A new study says Gen Z is missing the equivalent of one work day every week because of their mental health.
According to health and life insurance company Vitality, Gen Z employees in the United Kingdom reportedly lose an average of 54 productive days per year and the root cause appears to be tied to their anxiety, stress and depression. Those missed days are also costing the the world a lot of money. Vitaly reported more than $178 billion was lost in the UK. Past data from Gallup shows workers who miss days repeatedly cost the world an estimated $8.8 trillion.
A Walton Family Foundation and Murmuration study found that 42% of Gen Z'ers battle with depression and feelings of hopelessness. That rate is almost twice as high as Americans who are over 25.
Educator and workforce expert Gigi Robinson says Gen Z isn't one's typical generation.
"Do we have our work cut out for us in terms of traditional workforce, 'absolutely,'" Robinson said.
Further analysis from Vitality found that of the 4,000 people studied, young workers are 224% more likely to be depressed compared to their older colleagues.
"Younger people, specifically Gen Z, is known as the loneliest generation," said Robinson. "When you take a generation that's already struggling with communication with their peers, there's a disconnect."
Gen Z is already shying away from seeking promotions as they don't want to take on the additional responsibility and potential stress that comes with it.