Recent survey says that those in the age group of 15-29 are suffering from various mental health problems, poor eating habits, obesity, hypertension

A recent survey carried out by a Bengaluru-based institute has revealed that despite being physically active, those in the 15-29 age group are suffering from mental health problems, poor eating habits and obesity.

The survey was carried out among 100 youngsters and the results by Jindal Naturecure Institute shows that over 39 per cent of the age group suffered from various mental health issues like anxiety, eating disorders or depression.

This apart, 38 per cent of the age group indulged in junk and fast food at least twice a week. And 18.4 per cent of the participants suffered from health issues like obesity. hypertension, and thyroid disease.

On the brighter side, most of the Gen Z group showed willingness to perform physical activities every day of the week. Over 90 per cent of the group participated in physical activities every day.

A review of studies on fast food and heart health found that consuming fast food more than once every week was linked to a higher risk of obesity while eating fast food more than twice a week was associated with a higher risk of Type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and death from coronary heart disease.

Dr Babina NM, Chief Medical Officer, Jindal Naturecure Institute, said, “A highly connected world and constant pressure to perform, stress at work and in relationships are some main causes of increased anxiety, stress, and depression among the Gen Z population. People living with mental illness are at higher risk of experiencing a wide range of chronic physical conditions. Mental health disorders can alter hormonal balances and sleep cycles, while many psychiatric medications have side effects ranging from weight gain to irregular heart rhythms.

“They may adopt unhealthy eating and sleeping habits, smoke, or abuse substances, as a consequence or response to their symptoms, contributing to worse health outcomes.

She added that what we eat and drink every day affects our health and well-being, both physically and mentally. Good nutrition, along with regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight while reducing the risk of chronic diseases. However, consuming regular amounts of fast and junk food can impact the quality of health and will have negative effects on the body.

Another interesting facet of the survey was that almost 85 of the participants believe that alternative therapies like yoga, meditation and naturopathy can help improve their overall health.

As these young adults work to develop their resilience, it is important for Gen Z to seek out a holistic approach to health through yoga, meditation, and other alternative therapies to take care of their physical, emotional and mental health. Not only can these alternative therapies enhance physical health but also address a range of mental health issues starting from anxiety to depression to eating disorders, she added.