SHAH ALAM, July 18 – The Generation Z (Gen Z) is more likely to prioritise mental and emotional well-being over career stability, a shift from previous generations that focused more on job security and financial survival.
Selangor SEHAT Hub counsellor Dr Asraf Johar Salleh said this change in mindset has resulted in many young workers being more open to leave jobs that affect their mental health.
Asraf explained that earlier generations were more willing to stay in challenging work environments as employment options were more limited and earning an income was their main priority.
“Gen Z, on the other hand, has access to more job opportunities. This is why they place greater importance on mental well-being and are willing to look for jobs that are more suitable for them,” he said.
Speaking in the recent Bicara Semasa programme by Media Selangor, he said the generational gap is reflected in the different ways they cope with pressure at the workplace.
“Generations X and Y are more likely to endure pressure because they prioritise income security. From the outside, they may appear strong, but many are actually carrying hidden stress.
“However, this differs from Gen Z, who are more open about expressing their feelings and taking steps to protect their mental health, which they consider more important,” he said.
Asraf said some Gen Zs are drawn to careers such as content creators or influencers due to their desire for greater flexibility, independence, and job satisfaction.
“They want to do something that makes them happy and aligns with their interests.
“Although some people question the career choice, they believe it can provide a source of income if managed well,” he said.
However, he acknowledged that financial pressure, rising living costs, and workplace challenges remain among the main factors affecting Gen Z’s mental health, as they navigate adulthood in an era shaped by rapid technological advancement and social media.
“Social media constantly exposes them to the achievements and lifestyles of others. This creates pressure for them to keep up with their peers,” he said.
He added the rising cost of living and the growing fear of missing out (FOMO) culture have placed additional pressure on many young people to achieve success and financial stability within a short period.
Parents need to avoid comparisons between generations
Additionally, rapid technological changes, the growing influence of social media, and the pressures of modern life require parents to adapt their parenting approaches to better understand the needs of Gen Zs.
Asraf said parents today should not only focus on educating their children but also understand the realities they face in an era shaped by technological advancements.
He added some parents tend to measure their children’s experiences against their own past struggles, causing them to overlook the different challenges faced by the younger generation.
“We cannot force them to live according to our time because each generation faces different challenges.
“The important thing is that we understand their world and use our experiences as guidance, not to judge them,” he said.
According to him, parents must embrace technological changes as they are part of Gen Z’s daily lives, while taking a more active role in understanding their children’s behaviour and needs.
“If we do not understand technology, it will be difficult for us to understand our children.
“Only by entering their world can we know how to help and guide them more effectively,” he said.
He said many parents complain that their children are becoming more aggressive and difficult to manage, but the issue may stem from parenting methods that have not kept pace with current changes.
Asraf explained the demands of modern life and dependence on gadgets as a substitute for parental attention have affected family relationships, as affection and emotional support cannot be replaced by financial support or technology.
“The value of love needs to be expressed through actions and physical presence because many social problems, including drug abuse and juvenile crime, begin when children receive less attention at home,” he said.
