Work-Life Balance and Mental Health Outcomes for Generation Z in Germany

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Mental health can be negatively affected if work and private life demands are not balanced. This study proposes exploring work-life balance (WLB) as a predictor of Generation Z's mental health outcomes. METHODS: A cross-sectional online study was conducted to collect data on mental health outcomes and WLB from a sample of Generation Z (N = 134). Three regression models were calculated to examine the predictive effect of WLB on stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. RESULTS: The results show a strong statistically significant association between all three mental health outcomes. The regression model suggests work-life balance as a predictor of stress (β =.-0.404 P = 0.001, R2 = 0.16) and anxiety (β = .-256 P = 0.001, R2 = 0.06). CONCLUSION: WLB must be considered a significant factor in mental health problems among Generation Z.