Rebuilding Trust: Meeting Gen Z Where They Are

In today’s digital era, nearly half of young adults report trusting health advice from social media over that of medical professionals (Oss, 2025). This shift challenges traditional approaches to clinical care and raises concerns about misinformation. At the Community Service Board of Middle Georgia (CSBMG), we believe that building trust starts by listening.

Rather than dismissing digital curiosity, clinicians and providers can empower youth by validating their questions and engaging in dialogue. As Dr. Stuart Buttlaire emphasized, normalizing curiosity and co-exploring online content with Gen Z can strengthen trust and outcomes. When our teams acknowledge what young people see online and provide a safe space to talk through it, we not only educate—we build credibility.

At CSBMG, our approach to youth mental health is rooted in empathy, transparency, and communication. We’re adapting by using clear language, storytelling, and peer support to engage this generation. Our programs reflect their values—connection, authenticity, and collaboration.

Reference:
Oss, M. E. (2025, May 21). The advice challenge. OPEN MINDS. https://www.openminds.com