Exploring Toxic Wellness with Lillian, the Gen Z Perspective

Host: Lauren McLaughlin
- Lauren introduces the focus of the episode: Exploring real life outside the studio and the doctor's office, focusing on health and well-being in today's world.

Guest
- Lillian, a Gen Z'er trying to navigate the complexities of the world today. Bonus: She's Lauren's daughter!

---

Topics Covered:

Mental Health Discussions:
- The importance of discussing mental health, especially in younger generations.
- Lillian's perspective as a Gen Z'er and the unique challenges they face.
- Lauren reflects on generational differences in approaching mental health.

Generation Views & Values:
- The lack of validation and seriousness towards Gen Z and Millennial concerns.
- The misconception of "flipping the switch" to happiness.

Seeking the Right Conversations
- The need for meaningful conversations rather than surface-level advice.
- The internet's role in knowledge and exposure for the younger generation.

Wellness Culture & Its Toxicity:
- The commodification of wellness and its superficial nature.
- The desire of Gen Z and Millennials to redefine the term wellness.
- The pitfalls of a culture focused on perfection and aesthetics.

Escapism & Nature:
- Lillian's experience on the Appalachian Trail and seeking escape.
- The healing properties of nature and connecting with others on the trail.

---

Key Quotes:
- "Mental health as a concept has been out there for a while, but are we really addressing the issue?" - Lillian
- "We can't just flip a switch. That's not how emotions work." - Lillian
- "I don't think we want to be talked down to; we just want to be listened to and heard." - Lillian
- "Our generation as parents navigating parenting and trying to have communication with our children has not been easy." - Lauren
- "Sometimes it just feels like we're all set up to fail." - Lillian

---

Lauren and Lillian emphasize the importance of understanding, empathizing, and changing the narrative around mental health and well-being, especially for younger generations. The conversation highlights the need for genuine connection and understanding across generations.

---

Links & Resources:
- [Y Pulse articles](https://www.ypulse.com/)
- [Appalachian Trail Information](https://www.appalachiantrail.org/)