Gen Z: From Depression to Resistance

Generation Z today is facing a formidable test of the times. Various surveys and news reports have consistently highlighted a concerning reality: Generation Z in Indonesia is the demographic group most affected by anxiety and mental health disorders. This phenomenon is not a myth. On the brink of a mental health crisis, young people today appear increasingly vulnerable to depression. The triggering factors are diverse and complex, ranging from the illusion of a perfect life due to social media influence, unrelenting social pressures, to suffocating academic and lifestyle demands.

Furthermore, this crisis is not merely a domestic issue but a global phenomenon. Hundreds of millions of Gen Z individuals worldwide are reported to be unemployed and living in the shadow of career and future uncertainty. This pervasive uncertainty understandably causes Gen Z to grow into a generation that is far more sceptical and pessimistic about the existing world order. However, interestingly, from the womb of this suffering and scepticism, seeds of a resistance wave are beginning to emerge. This accumulated disappointment is predicted to become a turning point for the awakening of a generation often deemed fragile.

Upon deeper examination, the root of the acute anxiety plaguing Gen Z stems from a multidimensional crisis caused by the fragility of the current world order. This anxiety is not an inherent weakness but a result of the system that surrounds them. Their immense potential as youth is systematically weakened by a secular-capitalist civilisation. This system damages the identity of young people by imposing standards of success measured solely by material wealth, appearance, and false validation, while ignoring the essence of human and spiritual values.

Amidst this systemic pressure, the state, which should act as a guardian and protector, appears negligent. The loss of the state’s function of care for the younger generation forces them to struggle alone in a sea of economic uncertainty and social decay. Instead of being embraced, heard, and facilitated, Generation Z is often cornered and stigmatised—labelled as the ‘strawberry generation’, spoiled, or always wrong by the generations above them.

Nevertheless, the anxiety, scepticism, and critical attitude of Gen Z is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it represents despair, but on the other, this critical stance and rejection of a broken order could become a golden opportunity for change. The resistance that is beginning to form is a foundational asset for them to rise up and dismantle the failed capitalist system, moving towards an ideal condition that truly humanises them.

Here, the role of Islamic ideology becomes very crucial. Islam is not merely a ritualistic religion but an ideology that offers a comprehensive solution to the multidimensional crisis afflicting the world today. The comprehensive implementation of Sharia law is guaranteed to bring blessings to all creation. With rules originating from the Creator, Islam offers a solid worldview, liberates humans from the slavery of materialism, and brings spiritual tranquillity and salvation in this world and the hereafter.

History has recorded in golden ink the character of the youth generation during the height of Islamic civilisation. They were not an anxious generation or worshippers of virtual existence, but youth with a formidable Islamic personality. Examples include Usamah bin Zaid, Muhammad Al-Fatih, and Muslim scientists who were not only experts in religious matters but also highly proficient in various fields of science, technology, and leadership.

The resilience of the Islamic generation was also inseparable from the full support of the state system. In Islam, the state positions itself as a caretaker and protector of the people. The state has an absolute obligation to guarantee the fulfilment of basic human needs justly—from education and healthcare to employment. With guaranteed state care, the younger generation would not be haunted by economic anxiety, allowing them to focus on contributing and building civilisation.

Therefore, the time has come for Gen Z to channel their wave of resistance onto the right path, transforming depression into ideological struggle. Today’s youth must be awakened to study and carry the Islamic ideology, and to care deeply about the deteriorating condition of the ummah. By making Islam the guide for their movement and struggle, the revival of the ummah and a golden future will no longer be a mere dream, but a promise that will soon be realised.