Across the world there’s been a rise in people struggling with alcohol problems. In the UK, that’s certainly been the case, particularly since the pandemic, where women especially proved vulnerable to the condition.
NHS alcohol rehab centres have been inundated with people from all walks of life, turning to booze as a coping mechanism in the midst of the cost of living crisise, wars, furlough and the day-to-day issues we face regularly. However, Gen Z are largely coming out the otherside unscathed.
Where once nightclubs and pubs would be filled with young drinkers every night of the week, drinking culture across the UK has shifted significantly, with more health-conscious drinking, shifts to the alcohol free market and just generally opting for sobriety. Gen Z are at the heart of that.
But what exactly is different compared to Millennials and Generation X?
I’m sharing about this topic not only because I’m a mom to a Gen Z kid, but also because I’m a bestselling wellness author with about 2 million books sold globally.
Plus I founded the popular and therapist recommended self-paced online course called The Anxiety Cure.
Read on as we explore why Gen Z are ditching the booze…
First and foremost, those born post-millennium are generally just a lot more health conscious. Access to information around alcohol and the effects it has on our physical and mental health is much greater and as a result Gen Z are opting for more healthy pastimes. For example, according to a study featured in the i newspaper, more than half of Gen Z said they’d rather go to the gym than to the pub, while 69% said they find heavy drinking culture boring.
Of course, everyone is much more aware of their mental health these days and there’s been a real gear change over the last decade, often led by Gen Z when it comes to opening up and discussing mental health.
As a result, problems aren’t being bottled in by the generation, nor are they turning to the bottle like many have previously. What’s more, we’re also much more aware of the lows and exacerbated mental health conditions that hangovers bring.
Naturally, alcohol isn’t cheap these days and with times tighter than ever, actually economic factors play a big part in the decision to ditch alcohol by Gen Z. It’s seen as an unneccesary expense and when living on a tight budget, prioritising the likes of gym memberships and healthier hobbies compared to nights out and drinking sessions, which can also lead to taxis, takeaways and other unwanted expenses.
Social media has a profound impact on Gen Z’s lifestyle choices. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are flooded with influencers promoting healthy living, fitness, and sobriety. The trend of documenting one’s life online has made Gen Z more conscious of their public image.
They prefer to showcase a lifestyle that is vibrant and free from the pitfalls of excessive drinking. Moreover, the potential for embarrassing moments to be captured and shared widely on social media deters many from drinking. The desire to maintain a positive online presence encourages moderation or complete abstinence from alcohol.
Finally, the social landscape really has moved on. Gen Z are finding new ways to engage and socialise with each other that doesn’t involve a night in the pub. From fitness classes to hikes, video games to game nights and book clubs. They’re fighting against the norm, and as a result we’re seeing the likes of alcohol free events and various activities available in bars to try and bring the younger generation through the doors to survive.
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