Gen Z is considered to be one of the most significant generations of change. As one of the first young generations to experience accessible technology, and also the covid 19 lockdown during their upbringing, the level of environmental change that has occurred alongside their upbringing has developed into a notable cognitive shift. Surprisingly, Gen Z is drinking far less than preceding generations, and there are a few insightful reasons as to why young decision-making has changed. As a proud Gen-zer, I can agree that from my own experience, drinking has become far less appealing as I have grown into my early 20s. But what has caused this shift in drinking behaviours amongst the new young adults, and how is this impacting day-to-day life?

Sober curious relationships

The sober curious movement has become a prominent movement that Gen-zers have welcomed with open arms. It highlights an individual's lack of commitment to their relationship with alcohol and their preference for non-drink-related activities to limit their intake and explore a life without its reliance. Gen-Z have gone to the extent of specifying their sober curiosity in dating profiles, to attract partners that have an equal standpoint on casual drinking. 

The emotional impact of alcohol 

Gen-Z has also made it clear that they recognise the link between excessive drinking and emotional instability. The conversion of mental health has been brought to light on social media, more prominently around the time of the pandemic when access to professional support was limited. The truth is that Gen-Z does value their health, and this trend is visible with the rise in consumerism for health-related products. Mental health is ranked of high importance for Gen-Z. From refusing to stay in a stress-inflicting working environment to investing in mental health-supporting apps, alcohol essentially puts their ‘peace’ at risk. They realise the greater benefits of a non-alcoholic, or alcohol-limited lifestyle, as opposed to relying on drinking for any social events. When compared to the 75+ age range, they differ entirely in terms of their desire to drink casually.

Balance is a priority for Gen Z

Gen-zers are very conscious of keeping a balanced lifestyle. Yes, a percentage of the generation are career ladder climbers and overachievers, but the rest of them, seek harmony in terms of their personal and professional life. Drinking also can play a part in the professionalism and progression of Gen-zers amongst older generations. Whilst networking over a beer with employees might be the norm, Gen-z are opting to work from home and keep their social and professional relationships mostly separate. Might this hinder the progression of Gen-Z into managerial roles? Perhaps, especially when working for companies that rely on internal promotions and relationships between teams.

What are Gen Z looking for as an alternative? 

Let's be real, Gen Z do spend a large portion of their time living in the so-called ‘social media world’, so perhaps there is less time for casual drinking when allocating time for scrolling and laughing on TikTok. What is interesting about this addictive behaviour of immediate gratification is that they long for something better. Gen-z are aware when they engage in too much screen time, and ultimately feel the negative effects on their mental health. So, when they do meet friends and have time away from their phones, they are looking to make the most of it, instead of being left with a hazed memory and a night of booze. Or, keeping in the health-conscious theme, Gen-z opt for healthy drinks with low alcoholic intake such as ready to drink cocktails and spriters in a bid to take control of what they are drinking.

How Gen Z benefit from being the sober generation 

Clear positives come with Gen-Z being the more ‘sober’ generation. Notably, they are much more health conscious, which of course puts them in a better position to maintain their health and fitness as they get older, and limits the risk of diseases associated with frequent alcohol intake. We expect Gen-Z to continue with their consumption-aware approach, and continue seeking alternative ways to spend the time and debunk the myths that alcohol is necessary to relax and have a good time with your friends.

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Amy Jones is a freelance health and wellness writer from Manchester UK. She loves researching and writing about health topics, as well as keeping up to date with the latest health news, and eco-friendly brands. Her passion for health and wellness stems from her innate desire to educate people on how to properly take care of their bodies, spot any early signs of illness and take the best preventative methods. When not writing, you can find her taking long walks in the countryside with her dog, listening to groundbreaking podcasts or browsing her nearest bookstore.