New Study Highlights Mental Health Challenges and Opportunities for Faith Communities
A new study, conducted in 2024 and released in May 2025, focuses on Generation Z (born roughly 1997–2012) and reveals a generation grappling with loneliness, anxiety, and a deep desire for authentic relationships in a hyper-digital world.
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The study, sponsored by the Barna Group in collaboration with Gloo, found staggering statistics impacting young people. 85% of Gen Z believe their generation spends too much time online, yet 54% value in-person connections over digital ones. Happiness is their top priority (65%), followed by financial stability (53%) and mental health (49%). However, 28% report persistent loneliness—compared to just 4% of Elders—and 26% feel consistently isolated, against 5% of older generations. Anxiety affects 39% when facing major decisions, with an equal number uncertain about the future. Additionally, 31% of Gen Z have experienced a traumatic event, with women (34%) more likely than men (28%) to report trauma.
“Gen Z is looking for people who see them and understand their struggles,” said Brad Hill, Gloo’s chief solutions officer. “We have the chance to be that presence for them.”
As Gen Z navigates transitions into high school, college, or careers, the data—drawn from Gen Z Volume 3, Faith & AI, and a 2024 summer omnipoll—offers critical insights for ministry leaders, parents, and employers. Faith communities, in particular, can provide stability and belonging. “A caring, faith-filled community offers stability and strength,” said David Kinnaman, Barna’s CEO. “The Christian faith provides peace and purpose that Gen Z is searching for.”
Gloo and Barna will release monthly insights through 2025, alongside tools like virtual events and free church health assessments to help leaders engage young adults. Full findings are available on Barna Access Plus, with resources at stateofthechurch.com. With Gen Z facing unprecedented mental health challenges, this research calls for urgent action from communities to foster authentic connections, offering hope and purpose to a generation in need.
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