Gen Zers are increasingly turning away from alcohol and drugs, driven by a complex mix of financial pressures, health awareness, and a desire for control. A 22-year-old student named Lola, who reduced her drinking after the pandemic, reflects a broader trend: young people are rethinking their relationship with substances, often choosing sobriety or moderation over excess.
Data supports this shift. In the UK, 26% of 16-to-25-year-olds were teetotal in 2019, compared to 15% of those aged 55 to 74. In the US, only 60% of Gen Zers drink, versus 70% of adults aged 35 to 54. Among young Europeans who drink, the largest group (27%) drinks only once a month. The decline is also evident in Australia, where 44% of Gen Zers drank less during lockdown, and New Zealand, where binge drinking among youth has halved since 2001.
Experts attribute this trend to heightened risk aversion among Gen Z. “All risky practices are going down – drug use, unprotected sex, risky behaviours – young people are more risk averse in general,” says Amy Pennay, a senior research fellow at La Trobe University. This caution extends to health: Gen Zers are more informed about the negative impacts of alcohol and drugs, both on themselves and others.
Peer pressure has also evolved. Lola notes that her friends respect her choice not to drink, reflecting a “you-do-you” mentality. This cultural shift is reshaping nightlife, with bars and clubs adapting to offer alcohol-free options. As Gen Z redefines what constitutes a good night out, the hospitality industry is responding to a generation that values safety, mental health, and memorable experiences over intoxication.
