Famous Indian actress and lawmaker Jaya Bachchan recently stirred debate after suggesting that the internet is a key factor behind anxiety among today’s youth, a claim her daughter Shweta disagreed with.
In a previously aired episode of her granddaughter Navya Naveli Nanda's podcast, What The Hell Navya, the eminent actress raised concerns about Gen Z's mental health, blaming their constant dependence on digital validation. She said young people today often feel pressured to respond quickly to calls and messages and constantly seek approval from what they see online, which she believes is a key factor in increased stress and anxiety.
“You get your validation from the internet. Are you saying the right thing? Are you looking okay? All of this adds to your stress,” Jaya remarked. She also added that terms like “anxiety attack” were not common and were unheard of during her youth and even well into her middle age.
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However, Jaya's daughter, Shweta Bachchan, offered a contrasting perspective, suggesting that anxiety isn't a new phenomenon due to the internet. It was a problem even in the earlier times that’s more openly spoken now.
The exchange has sparked wider conversations and generational views around mental health and digital life.