The OVERTHINKING GENERATION: The Mental Health Struggle among Today’s Youth
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Abstract
Abstract
Overthinking is a common problem among young people today, especially university students in the modern digital era. This study focuses on Generation Z students (age 18–23) and aims to describe the main causes, effects, and strategies for overthinking. Using a descriptive qualitative approach and literature review, the results show that social pressure, social media comparison, poor communication, and fear of the future are the main causes. The effects include stress, lack of focus, insomnia, and low motivation. However, practicing mindfulness, self-compassion, and getting social support can help students achieve better mental balance. In conclusion, overthinking in Generation Z has negative impacts on mental health, but it can be reduced through self-awareness, acceptance, and positive social relationships.
Keywords: overthinking, mental health, Generation Z, communication, balance.
Abstrak
Overthinking atau berpikir berlebihan merupakan masalah umum di kalangan anak muda, terutama mahasiswa, pada era modern dan digital saat ini. Penelitian ini berfokus pada mahasiswa Generasi Z (usia 18–23 tahun) dan bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan penyebab utama, dampak, serta strategi dalam mengatasi overthinking. Dengan menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif deskriptif dan kajian pustaka, hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa tekanan sosial, perbandingan di media sosial, komunikasi yang buruk, serta kecemasan terhadap masa depan menjadi penyebab utama. Dampaknya meliputi stres, kurang fokus, insomnia, dan rendahnya motivasi. Namun, penerapan mindfulness, self-compassion, dan dukungan sosial dapat membantu mahasiswa mencapai keseimbangan mental yang lebih baik. Kesimpulannya, overthinking pada Generasi Z berdampak negatif terhadap kesehatan mental, tetapi dapat diatasi melalui kesadaran diri, penerimaan, dan hubungan sosial yang positif.
Kata kunci: overthinking, kesehatan mental, Generasi Z, komunikasi, keseimbangan.
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References
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