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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.
Millennials report career damage from substance use
The study found that 33% of employees admitted to using substances during work hours. Only 11% said their employer was aware. Among millennials, one in three said their substance use had already negatively affected their career progression, while two in five workers overall said they felt pressured to use substances simply to meet job expectations.
Turley warned that this kind of dependency is often a sign of unaddressed overwhelm. “If you catch yourself looking at substances as a way out or a means to cope, that’s a sign you’re overwhelmed,” she said. “Try acknowledging the stress and seek help, whether that’s a therapist, support group or a trusted HR contact.”
More than one in four younger workers have already sought or considered seeking professional help, according to the report. Gen Z employees were slightly more likely than millennials to take that step.
Support services underused despite high stress
Turley also highlighted the role employers should be playing in addressing workplace stress and its consequences. She pointed to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), national helplines and community-based counselling services as vital yet often underused options.
“There’s national hotlines like SAMHSA’s, which provide free, confidential support 24/7,” she said. “Quite a few state and local nonprofits also offer sliding-scale counselling. If you are employed, check with your HR department to see if they have an EAP.”
She urged organisations to normalise conversations around stress and mental health, improve the visibility of support services and offer designated mental health days. “Less than 20% of workers feel supported by their employers,” Turley said. “That’s a clear sign it’s time to do more.”
