The Counselor's Role in Improving Gen Z's Mental Health in the Digital Era

Azizahtul Hafizah; Nadila Ananda Putri; Nadia Dara Shinta; Putri Febryanti; Fabriella M.Pd

Authors

Azizahtul Hafizah Universitas Islam Negeri Sjech M.Djamil Djambek Bukttinggi
Nadila Ananda Putri Universitas Islam Negeri Sjech M.Djamil Djambek Bukttinggi
Nadia Dara Shinta Universitas Islam Negeri Sjech M.Djamil Djambek Bukttinggi
Putri Febryanti Universitas Islam Negeri Sjech M.Djamil Djambek Bukttinggi
Fabriella M.Pd Universitas Islam Negeri Sjech M.Djamil Djambek Bukttinggi

Keywords:

Mental Health, Gen Z, Counselor, Digital Era, Online Counseling

Abstract

Generation Z (Gen Z) faces unique and complex mental health challenges, often exacerbated by the digital landscape they live in. Constant exposure to social media, cyberbullying, pressure to be perfect online, and information overload can have a significant impact on their psychological well- being. In this context, the role of counselors becomes increasingly important and requires adaptation. This article analyzes the crucial role of counselors in supporting Gen Z's mental health in the digital age. The discussion includes identifying specific challenges faced by Gen Z online and the strategies and adaptations that counselors need to make. The analysis shows that counselors must have digital competence, understand Gen Z's digital culture, and be able to integrate digital tools and platforms into counseling practice ethically. A flexible, accessible, and sensitive approach to Gen Z's online experiences is needed, including the use of online counseling and digital literacy education. The conclusion of this article emphasizes that adaptation of methodology, increasing digital literacy, and a deep understanding of the impact of the digital era are essential for counselors to be able to effectively improve the mental health of the digital generation. The method in this research uses a literature review study method by utilizing various existing literature sources such as books, scientific journals and other reference sources. The literature review study research method is used to collect various knowledge and reasoning related to the topic that will be discussed in this journal article.

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