Young Generation Z More Productive Than Millennials: The Reason is Hangxiety
Young adults in Germany are drinking far less than previous generations. New research shows Generation Z consumes 20% less alcohol than millennials. The shift is driven by concerns over mental health, productivity, and a phenomenon called hangxiety—the anxiety and low mood that follows drinking.
Studies from 2015 to 2024 reveal that 20–35% of Germans aged 16–29 regularly suffer from hangxiety after drinking. The problem is worse for frequent binge drinkers and young women, with rates climbing to around 40%. Hospital data from Berlin, Hamburg and Munich also show a rise in emergency visits for alcohol-related psychiatric issues among late teens and early twenties.
Each hangxiety episode cuts into daily life, causing absences from work or school and reducing cognitive performance. On average, affected individuals lose several hours to a full day of productivity per episode. Over time, this adds up: those with frequent episodes see a 5–10% drop in output, along with disrupted sleep and long-term engagement issues.
The economic impact is significant. Germany loses over €16 billion annually due to alcohol-related productivity losses. Meanwhile, Gen Z’s decision to drink less is paying off. By avoiding hangovers and anxiety, they start their days more focused and maintain higher productivity over time.
Breweries have noticed the trend. Many now offer more non-alcoholic and low-alcohol drinks to meet demand from younger consumers who prioritise control and mental well-being.
The decline in alcohol use among Gen Z reflects a broader focus on health and efficiency. With fewer hangovers and less anxiety, younger workers and students perform better in the short and long term. As breweries adapt, the shift could reshape drinking culture—and productivity—in Germany for years to come.
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