Globally, Generation Z (born 1997–2012) constitutes a cohort that has matured in an unprecedented digital milieu, yet empirical inquiry into how digital immersion shapes their cognitive architecture for adversity resilience remains fragmented. This study examined the mental genesis of resilience by analysing the cognitive preparedness of Gen Z individuals for adversity within a digital age context. Employing a cross-sectional survey design with a sample of 412 Gen Z participants drawn from three universities in Uganda, the study measured five latent constructs: cognitive flexibility, emotional regulation, digital coping strategies, problem-solving orientation, and adversity appraisal. Univariate statistics revealed moderate to above-average resilience scores across all sub-scales, with digital coping recording the highest mean (M = 3.91, SD = 0.27). Bivariate analysis demonstrated statistically significant negative correlations between excessive screen time and cognitive preparedness (r = −0.31, p < 0.001), and significant positive associations between structured digital engagement and resilience. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) using AMOS confirmed a latent cognitive resilience factor that strongly predicted adversity preparedness (β = 0.68, p < 0.001), with model fit indices within acceptable thresholds (CFI = 0.947, RMSEA = 0.051, SRMR = 0.062). The findings underscore that digital engagement quality, rather than quantity, is the critical moderator of cognitive resilience among Gen Z. Recommendations are made for digitally integrated psychosocial intervention programmes in educational institutions, mental health literacy campaigns, and policy frameworks for screen-time guidance targeting youth mental health.