Survey Shows Almost 70% of Gen Z Admit to Weekly Substance Use
A recent workplace survey has found that a large share of Gen Z workers report using substances on a daily or weekly basis to cope with work-related stress. Nearly 69% of Gen Z respondents said they rely on substances regularly when dealing with pressure from their jobs.
The survey uses the term “substances” broadly. It does not refer only to illegal drugs. Instead, it includes alcohol, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, prescription medication, over-the-counter pain relief, and recreational drugs such as cannabis. As a result, the findings reflect a wide range of coping behaviours rather than a single form of substance use.
What the Survey Data Shows
When compared to Millennials, Gen Z shows slightly higher reported reliance on substances for stress management. Both generations report elevated stress levels. However, researchers often note that Gen Z entered the workforce during a period of economic uncertainty.
Remote and hybrid work models also shaped early career experiences for many Gen Z workers. In addition, many are still building job security and professional confidence. These factors may contribute to higher sensitivity to workplace stress.
Independent research supports this context. A global workplace study by Deloitte found that nearly half of Gen Z respondents reported feeling stressed or anxious most or all of the time. Workload, workplace culture, and financial pressure were cited as key contributors.
Broader Context and Public Reaction
Broader workplace studies suggest that stress-related substance use is not limited to Gen Z. One workplace wellbeing survey found that around one in three employees reported witnessing or engaging in substance use during work hours. This highlights how coping behaviours can intersect with job environments across age groups.
At the same time, experts caution against assuming that higher reported substance use equals higher long-term addiction rates. Broader epidemiological data suggests that Gen Z does not show higher levels of substance dependence than previous generations at the same age.
Online reactions to the survey have been mixed. Some readers expressed concern about the normalisation of substance use as a response to workplace stress. Others argued that the findings reflect deeper structural issues within modern work culture. Much of the discussion has focused on burnout, job insecurity, and the lack of adequate support systems for younger employees.
