Gen Z and the Rise of News Fatigue

With constant headlines and emotional overload, more young people are choosing to disengage from traditional news sources.

2025-07-05 16:53   |   By Freya Doyle

For many members of Gen Z, the endless scroll of headlines feels more exhausting than enlightening. News fatigue—a phenomenon once associated with older audiences—is now increasingly reported among younger Britons who feel overwhelmed by constant, often distressing information.

A recent survey by Ofcom found that nearly 60% of people aged 18–24 actively avoid the news, citing emotional toll and repetitive content as key reasons. Despite being the most digitally connected generation, Gen Z is tuning out from traditional and online news alike.

Social media, once heralded as a gateway for youth engagement, has become a double-edged sword. While platforms like TikTok and Instagram offer bite-sized news, they also contribute to overload, with algorithms pushing a flood of global crises and hot takes 24/7.

Mental health experts warn that the constant exposure to conflict, disaster, and controversy may lead to apathy or anxiety. 'It’s not disengagement out of ignorance—it’s self-protection,' says psychologist Dr. Leanne Groves, who works with teens facing digital burnout.

Some young people are seeking alternatives. Slow news outlets, newsletters with curated headlines, and podcasts offering deeper analysis are gaining traction. These formats allow for more intentional engagement and reduce the sense of helplessness that rapid-fire headlines can provoke.

Universities and youth organisations are starting to take note. Workshops on media literacy now include modules on emotional resilience and setting boundaries with news consumption. The emphasis is on staying informed without becoming consumed.

Journalists, too, are beginning to adapt. Some outlets are investing in solutions-based reporting—stories that not only highlight problems but also examine efforts to address them. Others are hiring Gen Z contributors to help reframe tone and style.

As the information age evolves, so too do the habits of its youngest citizens. News fatigue isn’t a rejection of current affairs—it’s a plea for better, kinder journalism that informs without overwhelming. The challenge now is for media institutions to listen.