Understanding GenZ's disclosure of mental health-related information and perceived social support

Mental health problems are a serious issue for all generations, including Gen Z. Mental health problems have a profound impact on our physical health. The primary purpose of this study is to explore the mental health problems disclosure behavior of the Bangladeshi Gen Z and perceived social support. Through in-depth interviews among the participants (N=15), this study examined the mental health problems disclosure of the Bangladeshi Gen Z, what kind of social support they received after mental health disclosure, and how actual support affects their future disclosure. The study found that Bangladeshi Gen Z likes to disclose their mental health problems face-to-face rather than virtually. They only discuss their problems with select people, such as close friends and mothers. Those who do not like to disclose their mental health problems try to overcome them by watching entertainment programs or engaging in destructive behaviors like pulling out their hair and destroying their valuables. Bangladeshi Gen Z mainly receive informational, emotional, and tangible support after disclosing their mental health problems. They also receive both positive and negative support. Positive support inspired them to disclose their mental health problems in the future, while negative support demotivated them from future disclosure. This study recommends enhancing supportive family communication and urges educational institutions and the government to take necessary steps in fostering a mentally healthy and balanced generation.