Can Speech and Debate be the Secret Weapon for Gen Z & Alpha's Burnout battle?

Gen Z and Gen Alpha are facing more stress and burnout than ever, especially when it comes to school and social life. Finding activities that build resilience and strong communication skills isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. A Gallup study found that only 31% of Gen Z feels invested in the work they’re doing, which says a lot about how disengaged many are feeling. Business Insider's Aki also shed light on this growing issue, showing just how big of a challenge disengagement is becoming for these younger generations.

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However, this idea of disengagement is not a generational issue - rather it's a symptom of broader organizational and cultural challenges.

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Factors such as lack of meaningful communication, limited opportunities for growth, and spaces that don't foster collaboration contribute significantly to disengagement across all age groups. Therefore, it is crucial to build environments where young people feel connected and motivated. Engaging in speech and debate focuses on:

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✅ Enhanced Communication Skills – Helping young people articulate their thoughts clearly can ease anxiety in social and academic settings.

✅ Critical Thinking Development – Encouraging analytical thinking equips them to evaluate arguments and make informed decisions.

✅ Confidence Building – Regular public speaking boosts self-esteem, a key factor in managing stress and overcoming challenges.

✅ Community & Support – Being part of a Speech and Debate team creates a sense of belonging, reducing feelings of isolation linked to burnout.

✅ Time Management Skills – Preparing for competitions teaches balance and organization, helping reduce overwhelm.

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Now more than ever, it’s important to create spaces where young people feel supported, engaged, and empowered. Speech and Debate isn’t just about winning arguments—it’s about building skills that help them thrive in all aspects of life.

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How are you seeing engagement (or burnout) play out among the young people in your community or your life? What activities have made a difference? Would love to hear your thoughts!