25/10/2025
Why Mental Health Matter in this era of Misinformation!
Mental illness manifests in many ways, often through persistent sadness, withdrawal from social connections, changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of hopelessness (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). When left unrecognized or unsupported, these symptoms can escalate into crises that deeply affect individuals and their families.
The tragic passing of Emman Atienza, daughter of television host Kim Atienza, is a sobering reminder of this reality. At just 19 years old, Emman had openly shared her struggles with mental health, including the weight of childhood trauma, online harassment, and the pressures of public scrutiny. Her story reflects not only the personal toll of mental illness but also the broader challenges faced by her generation. We extend our deepest sympathy to the Atienza family, who have shown courage and openness in acknowledging her struggles and honoring her memory.
Family plays a vital role in mental health. Open communication, empathy, and a supportive home environment can serve as protective factors against the destructive effects of external pressures. For Gen Z, these pressures are amplified by the constant presence of social media, political polarization, and the spread of disinformation. Studies show that Gen Z is the most digitally connected generation, and while this connectivity fosters community, it also exposes them to relentless streams of misinformation, toxic discourse, and unrealistic comparisons (Lee et al., 2022; UNICEF, 2025).
Politics and disinformation, in particular, can be destructive to young people’s mental health. Gen Z often feels a heightened sense of responsibility for global issues—climate change, corruption, inequality—yet they are simultaneously bombarded with conflicting narratives and hostile online environments. This creates a cycle of anxiety, disillusionment, and emotional fatigue (Crosier, 2024). Without strong family support and open dialogue, these external stressors can exacerbate existing vulnerabilities.
Emman’s story is not just about loss—it is also a call to action. Families, schools, and communities must foster safe spaces for honest conversations about mental health. By listening without judgment, countering disinformation with truth, and prioritizing compassion over stigma, we can help protect the well-being of Gen Z and honor the memory of those, like Emman, who have bravely shared their struggles.
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American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Washington, DC: Author.
Crosier, S. (2024, May 22). Gen Z, social media, and mental health. Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University. Retrieved from https://sph.emory.edu/news/gen-z-social-media-mental-health
Lee, Y., Jeao, Y. J., Kang, S., et al. (2022). The effects of social media on Gen Z’s mental health. Siam University. Retrieved fromhttps://e-research.siam.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/IMBA-2022-IS-The-Effects-of-Social-Media-on-Gen-Zs-Mental-Health.pdf
UNICEF. (2025). Understanding the mental health impact on Gen Z: Global report. Retrieved fromhttps://www.unicefusa.org/sites/default/files/2025-07/UNICEF-report-Understanding-Mental-Health-Impact-GenZ-2025.pdf
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Here’s a strong set of **30 mental health–themed hashtags** you can use across social media. I’ve mixed broad awareness tags with more specific ones to maximize reach and engagement:
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