For Gen Z and millennials, financial concerns remain the biggest source of their stress, according to new survey by Deloitte.
Both generations worry about day-to-day expenses and long-term financial security. Many feel they are not financially stable enough, and this uncertainty is a leading contributor to chronic stress.
The survey, conducted in November 2024, analysed responses from 23,000 people, including 14,468 Gen Zs and 8,853 millennials, across 44 countries.
WORK IS A MAJOR DRIVER OF ANXIETY
Beyond financial concerns, work itself has become a significant source of distress. About 36% of Gen Zs and 33% of millennials who regularly feel stressed said their job directly contributes to their anxiety.
Long working hours, lack of recognition, and a perception that workplace decisions are unfair are among the most cited reasons.
MENTAL HEALTH STRUGGLES REMAIN HIGH
A large share of respondents reported feeling stressed or anxious all or most of the time, underscoring mental-health challenges that have persisted long after the pandemic.
The survey shows that young workers are still grappling with burnout, uncertainty, and emotional fatigue.
YOUNG WORKERS FEAR SPEAKING UP
One of the most worrying trends is the growing fear of raising work-related concerns. More than one-third of Gen Zs say they are uncomfortable voicing problems at work due to potential negative consequences.
Among those already experiencing high stress, this fear rises sharply to 62% of Gen Zs and 61% of millennials.
FRUSTRATION WITH ORGANISATIONS IS GROWING
The report also highlights a widening disconnect between young workers and their employers.
Over 60% of stressed respondents said they feel frustrated with how their organisation operates.
This frustration reflects deeper concerns about transparency, fairness, and workplace culture.
LONELINESS AND ISOLATION ON THE RISE
Nearly 3 in 10 Gen Zs said they feel isolated all or most of the time, and this number jumps to over 60% among those who report frequent stress.
The sense of disconnection, even in increasingly hybrid or remote workplaces, is emerging as a critical mental-health challenge.
WORK FEELS PURPOSELESS FOR MANY
Purpose also plays a key role in well-being. Around 30% of Gen Zs said their work lacks meaning, contributing to disengagement, dissatisfaction, and declining mental well-being.
MICROMANAGEMENT REMAINS A MAJOR PAIN POINT
A significant number of Gen Z workers reported being micromanaged, a factor strongly linked to higher stress levels, decreased motivation, and poor mental health.
The report suggests that leadership styles heavily influence how young employees experience the workplace.
MENTAL-HEALTH SUPPORT AT WORK IS IMPROVING
There is, however, some progress. The survey finds that access to mental-health support has increased, with more organisations offering stress-management tools, wellness resources, and opportunities for employees to discuss well-being with managers.
While promising, the report notes that these efforts still fall short of addressing the systemic issues driving young workers’ stress.
For example, among those for whom resources are available, just 46% of Gen Zs and 48% of millennials who said they feel stressed or anxious all or most of the time have used an employee assistance program (EAP) or helpline.
Around 49% of Gen Zs and 51% of millennials in this group said they have used mental health apps.
THE ECONOMIC COST OF POOR MENTAL HEALTH
The report cites World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that depression and anxiety contribute to 12 billion lost workdays each year globally.
This highlights the massive economic impact of untreated mental-health challenges.
It is clear from the data that a continued focus on mental health and well-being in the workplace is needed.
The availability of support is, of course, an important part, but this support will only be effective if it is accessed by those who need it.
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