CARLSBAD — Carlsbad native Aly Vredenburgh has released a new book that delves into the mental health challenges faced by Generation Z, offering insights and solutions to foster “real change” for her generation.
Vredenburgh, 27, has harbored a deep interest in the mental healthcare system since her childhood in coastal North County, where she first gained recognition by winning a middle school science fair for her research on mental health.
This early passion grew as she witnessed both her peers and herself grappling with mental health issues over the years, leading her to identify what she describes as an epidemic.
“I made it my life’s mission to address the epidemic,” Vredenburgh said.
After earning a Master’s degree in social innovation from the University of San Diego, Vredenburgh’s work has been featured in scientific journals and global conferences focused on adolescent mental health. She currently runs a therapeutic art program for high school students, which she notes has made a significant impact on her clients.
The impetus to write her book came after the loss of her best friend to mental health struggles at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, a tragedy that deeply affected her.
“It was the hardest thing I’ve ever been through,” Vredenburgh said of her friend’s death. “I didn’t leave my bed for a year.”
As she worked through her grief, Vredenburgh felt compelled to illuminate the complexities of Gen Z’s mental health crisis in a way that would resonate widely. This led to the publication of her book, “Out of Focus: Why Gen Z’s Mental Health Crisis is More Complex Than You Think,” in early August.
“I named the book ‘Out of Focus’ because these issues have been out of focus from the media, and it feels like no one is really talking about it – and when they do, they always just blame social media,” she explained. “I felt like I really needed to talk about all of the factors creating this crisis with my background in social innovation.”
The book addresses several key areas, including the distinct upbringing of Gen Z compared to previous generations, the interplay of cultural, health, social, and technological factors with historical contexts that have contributed to the mental health crisis, systemic corruption exacerbating the issue, the loneliness epidemic, and innovative prevention-focused solutions.
Vredenburgh also highlights the struggle to meet basic needs as a significant factor affecting mental health.
“A lot of people are not having their basic needs met,” she said. “About 70% of people can barely afford groceries, and with the average cost of therapy ranging from $100 to $200 per month even with health insurance, a lot of people simply can’t afford it.”
She further discusses how older generations’ perceptions of Gen Z have contributed to the mental health crisis, emphasizing that while her book centers on Gen Z, it offers valuable insights for older generations as well.
“It’s important for older generations to know their part in this,” she said. “Gen Z is different, and they have to meet us where we’re at. We have a lot of ways we can benefit organizations: for example, we’re digital natives, so we’re able to navigate things differently.”
Vredenburgh expressed disappointment at the lack of media coverage on Gen Z’s mental health crisis and hopes her book will spur more attention and action from local leaders and beyond.
“I offer real solutions to lawmakers, Gen Z, and other generations in my book,” she said. “I have a lot of ideas that I think can help us.”
As she continues to promote her book, Vredenburgh is open to speaking at local events on the topic. Out of Focus is available for purchase online through Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
