Opinion: Bridging Generations on Mental Health in Healthcare

By General Manager, AAR Healthcare, Elizabeth Wasunna 

In healthcare, as in many other sectors, the evolving approach to mental health across generations is becoming increasingly noticeable. The rise of Generation Z (Gen Z) has highlighted a shift in attitudes toward self-care, mental health, and work-life balance, forcing many industries to reassess their strategies and policies, including in healthcare organizations. 

A recurring theme in the workplace today is the Gen Z employee, who often prioritizes mental health by openly requesting time off for self-care or taking a stand against what they perceive as a toxic work culture. For older generations, especially Baby Boomers, this shift may appear to signal a sense of entitlement or a lack of resilience. However, for Gen Z, prioritizing mental health is simply a matter of necessity, rather than an indulgence. In healthcare, where burnout rates are high, particularly among frontline workers, this generational divide is especially relevant. 

A humorous TikTok video that captures the generational tension reflects this shift. In the clip, a Gen Z employee requests a "mental health day" from their Boomer boss, only to be met with skepticism. The Boomer dismisses it as an excuse, while the Gen Z employee remains steadfast in their belief that mental health cannot be sidelined. The middle ground is represented by Generation X, who, while acknowledging the importance of mental health, still holds onto the traditional value of pushing through hardship. Millennials, on the other hand, tend to be more supportive and empathetic, encouraging time off when necessary to avoid burnout. 

The humor in this skit underscores an essential truth: the conversation surrounding mental health has shifted, particularly among younger generations. Gen Z, born in the late 1990s to early 2010s, has led a cultural movement that integrates mental health into daily life and work. They have normalized discussions about anxiety, therapy, burnout, and the need for rest. For them, self-care is not a luxury but a critical component of their well-being and long-term productivity. 

In healthcare, this generational shift presents both challenges and opportunities. Healthcare organizations are increasingly recognizing the importance of mental health support for their workforce. The healthcare environment is known for its high-stress nature, long hours, and emotional toll on workers, making mental health care essential. Gen Z, having grown up with a constant flow of information on mental health through platforms like TikTok and YouTube, is leading the charge in destigmatizing mental health struggles. They are pushing for policies that support mental well-being, from mental health days to access to therapy and counselling services as part of employee benefits. 

In response, many healthcare organizations are starting to revise their approach. Mental health days are being integrated into employee benefits packages, and there is growing recognition that supporting employees' mental well-being is not just the right thing to do but also a business imperative. Healthcare leaders are also increasingly acknowledging the importance of creating a workplace culture that values rest and recovery, and that offers emotional support through programs such as peer support networks. 

The transition to a more mental health-conscious healthcare system may be slow, particularly for those who are accustomed to the traditional "grind" mentality, but it is clear that the tide is turning. The healthcare industry, in particular, is uniquely positioned to embrace this change. By leading the way in fostering a culture that acknowledges mental health as a priority, healthcare organizations can not only improve employee satisfaction and retention but also create a more sustainable and effective workforce. 

Ultimately, the evolving perspectives of younger generations on mental health are not a sign of fragility but a reflection of wisdom gained from growing up in a world characterized by economic uncertainty, social unrest, and a constant digital presence. In this context, prioritizing mental health is not a luxury but an essential strategy for long-term well-being. 

As healthcare leaders, we must consider whether our current models truly support the mental health of our workforce or whether we have been desensitized to the importance of well-being in the pursuit of productivity. Bridging this generational gap and embracing a more empathetic, proactive approach to mental health can create a healthier, more resilient healthcare environment for both employees and patients alike.