Are Dissociation Symptoms Increasing in Gen Z?

[Shree]

Some teens describe zoning out, time gaps, or feeling disconnected from their surroundings. This may be tied to constant multitasking, stress or emotional overload. When does normal distraction become dissociation? What grounding strategies actually help teens stay present?

 

[Hazel]

There’s some concern that dissociation might be more common in Gen Z, but it’s hard to measure. Many young people describe zoning out, feeling detached, or losing track of time, which could be linked to stress, screen overload, or constant multitasking. It raises the question of whether the symptoms are truly increasing or if people are simply more aware and open about them.