Burnout crisis | One in three workers use substances to manage job stress

A new study has revealed that one in three workers are using substances during the workday to manage stress, with younger employees significantly more likely to report daily use as they face job insecurity, economic pressure, and limited support from employers.

The findings, released by SubstanceAbuseCounselor.org, are based on a survey of 1,000 working-age adults across a mix of industries, roles and employment statuses. Participants answered questions relating to workplace culture, economic strain, and access to mental health resources.

Nearly 70% of both Gen Z and millennial employees said they use substances daily to manage work-related stress. In many cases, it has been made worse by concerns over layoffs and the impact of artificial intelligence. A quarter of Gen Z respondents and one in three millennials said those specific factors had contributed to their increased use.

Rebecca Turley, Content and Research Lead at SubstanceAbuseCounselor.org, said that while many may view substances as a temporary coping mechanism, the long-term risks are serious. “This ‘quick fix’ often has a ripple effect that causes financial strain, career stagnation and even health deterioration,” she said.