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One in five Gen Z Australians have no friends or family they can rely on for support, according to new research from Mental Health Australia.<\/p>\n
With schools playing an important role in shaping young people\u2019s sense of belonging, the findings raise concerns about students who may struggle to find support both inside and outside the classroom.<\/p>\n
Released ahead of World Mental Health Day on 10 October, the nationally representative Essential Research survey also found that 20% of Gen Z respondents had nobody to count on when they needed support. This compares with 13% of Gen X respondents and 8% of Baby Boomers.<\/p>\n
Almost one-third of Gen Z respondents also reported feeling little or no connection to friends, family, neighbours and their communities.<\/p>\n
Young Australians report weaker social connections<\/p>\n
The survey found that only 65% of Gen Z respondents felt connected to others, compared with 71% of Millennials and 80% of Baby Boomers.<\/p>\n
However, social disconnection was not limited to younger generations. Nearly half of all Australians surveyed said they felt less connected than a decade ago, while 64% believed the country was becoming more disconnected.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe fact that one in five Gen Zs say they have no one they can count on for support should be a wake-up call. We all need people we can rely on. When those relationships are missing, the impact on mental health and wellbeing can be profound,\u201d Mental Health Australia CEO Carolyn Nikoloski said.<\/p>\n
\u201cYoung people can\u2019t solve this growing connection gap on their own. We all have a role to play in creating the relationships, opportunities and communities that help young people feel connected, supported and able to thrive.\u201d<\/p>\n
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare<\/a>, social isolation, loneliness and strained relationships can increase psychological distress among young people.<\/p>\n The role of school belonging<\/p>\n While the Mental Health Australia survey did not specifically examine school environments, other research has highlighted how students\u2019 everyday experiences can affect their sense of belonging.<\/p>\n A Monash University<\/a>-led review found that around one in three students lacked a sense of belonging at school<\/a>. The review linked school belonging with student wellbeing, academic engagement and educational equity. It also emphasised the importance of creating environments where students feel valued, safe and recognised.<\/p>\n