UCLA Summit Explores Mental Health Solutions for Digital Gen Z

Experts discuss the impact of social media, AI, and the pursuit of online validation on young people's well-being.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 8:19pm

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A recent summit at UCLA brought together experts to address the growing mental health challenges faced by Gen Z, whose lives are increasingly intertwined with the digital world. Discussions centered around the addictive nature of social media, the fear of missing out and people's opinions, the role of AI in creativity, and the rise of eating disorders fueled by unrealistic beauty standards online. The summit emphasized the importance of in-person connections, peer support, and developing strategies for a healthier relationship with technology.

Why it matters

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, understanding its impact on the mental health of young people is crucial. This summit highlights the need to find a balance between embracing technology and prioritizing well-being, ensuring that Gen Z can navigate the digital world in a healthy and fulfilling way.

The details

The Gen Z Wellness Summit at UCLA explored various ways in which technology is shaping the mental health of young people. Psychologist Scott Barry Kaufman introduced the concept of FOPO (fear of people's opinions) as a more accurate descriptor of the anxieties driving many young people, who feel constant pressure to seek online validation. Experts also discussed the role of AI in creativity, emphasizing the importance of fostering human imagination and resisting the temptation to rely solely on AI-generated content. The summit also addressed the rise of eating disorders linked to the distortion of perceptions on social media, with one in three college students exhibiting concerning symptoms.

  • The Gen Z Wellness Summit took place recently at UCLA.
  • The summit highlighted growing concerns surrounding mental health challenges linked to social media, AI, and the pursuit of online validation.

The players

Scott Barry Kaufman, PhD

A psychologist who introduced the concept of FOPO (fear of people's opinions) as a more accurate descriptor of the anxieties driving many young people.

Vivienne Ming, PhD

A theoretical neuroscientist who emphasized that the most valuable asset in a world increasingly shaped by AI is uniquely human creativity.

Stuart B. Murray, PhD, PsyD

A researcher at UCLA who demonstrated the pervasive pressure to alter one's appearance to conform to societal norms, and noted the link between social media use and the development of eating disorders.

Ira Bedzow, PhD

An expert who emphasized the value of self-reflection within a trusted community, noting that it allows for accountability and diverse perspectives.

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What they’re saying

“Your unique voice is literally your value to the world.”

— Vivienne Ming, Theoretical Neuroscientist

“It can feel 'like an addiction'.”

— Summit Attendee

What’s next

Experts predict that the conversation around Gen Z's mental health and technology will continue to evolve, with increased demand for digital wellbeing tools, the potential use of AI in mental health support, a greater emphasis on media literacy education, and more community-based mental health initiatives.

The takeaway

This summit highlights the need for a balanced approach to technology, one that allows young people to embrace its benefits while also prioritizing their mental well-being. By fostering self-respect, cultivating in-person connections, and developing strategies for healthier digital habits, Gen Z can navigate the complexities of the modern world with resilience and authenticity.