Mexican Gen Z Balances Hope, Mental Health Struggles: UNICEF

A new UNICEF report on Generation Z in Mexico reveals a complex picture of optimism mixed with emotional strain. While young Mexicans report higher levels of empowerment and connection to the world compared with their peers globally, they also face elevated levels of anxiety, exposure to crises, and persistent stigma surrounding mental health.

According to the study, 70% of Gen Z respondents in Mexico feel part of the global community, and 64% believe they have the power to influence its future, figures that surpass global averages. Despite this optimism, 72% say they feel overwhelmed by news and world events, and 75% express concern about the planet’s future, placing Mexican youth among the most worried groups internationally.

The data also point to a pressing mental health challenge. More than half of young Mexicans say they have needed help with their mental health, the highest rate among surveyed countries. Respondents report greater exposure to issues such as climate change, economic uncertainty and social injustice than the global average.

Yet, despite the widespread need, stigma remains an obstacle. About 56% say they have experienced mental health stigma in school, and 62% report it in the workplace, both higher than global levels. The burden is unevenly distributed as Gen Z women are more likely to feel overwhelmed by the news, face greater stigma, and report having sought mental health support more frequently.

Music and gaming have emerged as common coping mechanisms, with 83% listening to music and 63% playing games to manage stress after exposure to distressing content.

Findings underscore a widespread demand for institutional support. Eighty-seven percent of Mexican Gen Z respondents believe the national government should play a role, or a leading role, in supporting youth mental health. Schools and international organizations are also seen as key actors in addressing these challenges.

The report presents a call to action for policymakers, educators and employers to foster open dialog, reduce stigma and expand access to mental health resources tailored to the needs of a generation that remains hopeful but increasingly burdened by global uncertainty.