In today’s digital age, memes, slang, and buzzwords permeate the online presence of Generation Z (Gen-Z). Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok have given rise to a generation that thrives on dark, self-deprecating humour, and at times alarmingly negative. A recurring term that has become worryingly common is “kms,” short for “k*ll myself.” While used casually, such phrases carry connotations far more serious than the light-hearted contexts they are often used in on social media. In today’s toxic lingo parlance, there’s always some “Negative Nancy” who leaves an unnecessary toxic comment on your social media thread.
Experts opine that this alarming trend of “negative”, “self-depreciating” and “destructive” language on social media calls for a deeper examination of its implications on mental health, communication, and social behaviour.
Mind Your Language
Dr. Rakhi Krishan, a linguist specialising in digital communication, notes, “While every generation has developed its own form of slang, what sets Gen-Z apart is the frequency with which they normalise and trivialise issues related to mental health through their everyday language.”
Slang has always been a vital part of youth culture, allowing generations to express themselves in ways that feel unique, rebellious, or humorous. But experts argue that the nature of the language used by Gen-Z carries a darker tone.
The phrase “I’m so bored I could kms” is a clear example of how serious concepts, like suicide, are thrown into casual conversation as hyperbolic expressions of boredom or frustration. “Kms” and other terms like “unalive” or “end it all” are rampant on social platforms, particularly TikTok.
The normalisation of these phrases desensitises individuals to the gravity of the issues they reference. When repeated over and over, they lose their shock value, becoming just another part of the online lexicon.
Dark Humour Impact
Dark humour, long appreciated for its ability to confront the morbid with wit, has taken on a new life in the digital age. However, when humour becomes saturated with negativity, it risks influencing the way young people perceive and process real-world issues. For Gen Z, who have grown up in a world dominated by internet culture, the line between humour and serious discourse can blur dangerously.
Dr. Krishan points out, “Humour is a coping mechanism, and in small doses, it’s perfectly healthy. But when young people are using dark or toxic humour consistently, especially in the context of serious topics like mental health, it can start to distort their emotional responses. Over time, there’s a risk of becoming numb to these very real issues.”
This desensitisation is concerning in a generation already experiencing unprecedented levels of anxiety, depression, and stress. According to the American Psychological Association, Gen Z reports the highest levels of stress and mental health challenges compared to previous generations. Dr. Krishan suggests that “the constant use of negative language could reinforce a pessimistic worldview, potentially feeding into those already-existing struggles with mental health.”
Why So Negative
But why is Gen-Z’s humour and language so saturated with negativity? Some argue it’s a reflection of the times. This generation has grown up amid political instability, climate anxiety, and a digital world that is often more cynical than optimistic. Add to this the perfectionism demanded by social media, where everyone is judged by their online persona, and it’s no surprise that negativity festers in their communications. Ophelia, a 16-year-old TikTok user says, “We joke about stuff like ‘kms’ because we’re constantly under pressure. Sometimes it feels like the only way to deal with everything going on around us. We all know it’s not literal, but it’s a way of letting off steam.”
For young people like Ophelia, these expressions are a coping mechanism, a form of digital catharsis. However, the casual use of such loaded terms makes it harder to distinguish genuine cries for help from mere jokes. This is especially concerning given that social media is one of the primary spaces where young people communicate and express their emotions.
Social Media Algorithms
It’s not just the language Gen-Z is using but also how platforms are amplifying it. Social media algorithms prioritize content that gets high engagement, and controversial or extreme posts often gain more traction. Memes that use exaggerated or hyperbolic expressions — like “kms”— garner reactions because of their shock value. This engagement-driven cycle only reinforces the use of such language, as content creators, whether they are aware of it or not, end up contributing to this toxic loop.
Mindful Communication
It’s clear that while dark humour and casual expressions of frustration have their place in youth culture, there is a thin line between catharsis and harm. Experts encourage a more mindful approach to communication, particularly when dealing with sensitive topics. Social media companies, too, must take greater responsibility in monitoring and moderating the kind of language that spreads on their platforms. Dr. Krishan concludes, “We need to teach young people to be more conscious of the language they use. Words have power. And even if they’re said in jest, repeated exposure to negative expressions can have lasting impacts on how they view themselves and the world around them.”
In an era where mental health challenges are becoming more prominent, it’s essential for Gen-Z to reflect on how their casual slang may be contributing to the culture of negativity they’re attempting to laugh away. Only by fostering a culture of mindful and supportive communication can we ensure that the language of youth evolves into one of positivity, not pessimism.