GenZ ditches the fear and embraces the fun: Reveals survey

March 19, 2024: In India, perceptions about mental health have been progressively changing as people become more conscious of the need to lessen the stigma attached to this problem. On this World Happiness Day, 2023, the Feel Good with Fiama Mental Wellbeing Survey 2023* provides insights into how Gen Z is altering their worldview in order to lead better lives and feel more happy. The poll was conducted in collaboration with NielsenIQ and covers a wide range of attitudes, actions, and primary stressors related to mental health for Gen Z and Millennials. It also identifies de-stressors that contribute to their happiness and sense of calm.

Gen Z views FOMO as the "Fun of Missing Out," as opposed to the "Fear of Missing Out" on social events and activities. This change of viewpoint enables people to prioritise their well-being, set boundaries, and pursue the things that actually make them happy and fulfilled.According to the report, 51% of Indians who think social media has a good effect on their lives instead seek treatment through online counselling, despite the wide range of factors that contribute to stress and rising anxiety. 86% of Indians report using yoga, meditation, and exercise as common methods of reducing stress, underscoring the significance of exercise in preserving mental equilibrium. 75% of Gen Z Indians prefer to unwind with a feel-good movie or series.

Dr. Raghu Appasani, Founder and CEO, MINDS Foundation states, “The first step to Happiness for adults in the busy lives that we all live now, is to understand what is stopping it and then trying to work on it – whether internal or external. Fiama in collaboration with Minds Foundation provides subsidized virtual therapy. The therapy sessions are designed for people who are committed to make personal changes for greater life satisfaction and help them gain a better understanding of themselves.”

As mental wellbeing in recent years has gained some prominence in broadcast content, the Feel Good with Fiama Mental Wellbeing survey also throws light on attitudes towards mental health portrayal; 79% believe positive mental health portrayals in movies can aid in addressing stigma and 81% also feel that celebrities create strong impact as mental health advocates.

Sameer Satpathy, Divisional Chief Executive, Personal Care Products Business, ITC Limited, added, “Emotions are at the core of being human and the pursuit of happiness is non-negotiable. This is corroborated further by the Feel Good with Fiama Mental Wellbeing Survey with Fun of Missing Out emerging as the new perspective. Mental well-being is an integral part of our psychological, emotional and social well-being. ITC Fiama is committed to enabling proactive conversations on mental wellbeing in India.”

Rashmika Mandanna, ITC Fiama’s brand ambassador comments, “In today's fast-paced world, safeguarding our mental health is paramount, given the relentless pressures we face. My daily life often spans odd hours with hectic schedules and travels but I believe in living in the moment and find little joys in the smallest of things, be it small gestures of kindness that I witness around me, or just a quick indulgence of my K-drama or Anime. In my opinion, doing what you like and indulging yourself with small breaks helps destress quicker. I’m proud to be associated with ITC Fiama in their effort to not only acknowledge everyday stressors, but also make mental wellbeing a more proactive conversation today.”