Study Finds 63% of Gen Z Want to Quit Drinking Alcohol Over Social Media Fears

A recent study by EduBirdie, a writing platform, reports that 63% of Generation Z want to quit drinking alcohol entirely. The survey, which focused on young adults aged 14 to 29, highlights a shift in attitudes toward alcohol among this group. Social media appears to play a significant role in this change, with many Gen Zers citing concerns about their online image and the potential for embarrassing moments to be shared widely.

Lucy, 23, who works in journalism, described an incident after a night out where she found herself the subject of memes on an Instagram page run by acquaintances. The experience left her embarrassed and hesitant to drink again. She said her decision to stop drinking was driven more by fear of public embarrassment than by health concerns. According to the EduBirdie study, 47% of Gen Z respondents questioned whether they drank too much, and 31% reported finding embarrassing photos or videos of themselves online after social events.

The rise of platforms like Instagram and Snapchat has made it easier for social interactions to be documented and shared instantly. For Gen Z, who have grown up with these technologies, the line between private and public life is often blurred. Marie, 24, a graduate student in business, said she feels pressure to look composed and curated on social media even during casual nights out. She described experiencing “hangxiety,” or anxiety about her actions the night before, which is heightened by the possibility that those moments could be posted online.

Social media not only amplifies self-consciousness but also shapes how young people approach drinking. Ben Tannenbaum, an alcohol industry analyst with a background in anthropology, noted that Gen Z’s relationship with alcohol is more curated than previous generations. He explained that for many young adults today, the act of documenting a night out is as important as the event itself. The choice of venue, drink selection, and even the bartender’s presentation become part of a story crafted for social media.

Tannenbaum pointed out that Gen Z is less concerned about being seen drinking and more focused on how they are perceived as drinkers. He said that social media has made drinking visible and accountable in new ways. As a result, young people are more likely to moderate their consumption or choose drinks that align with their desired image.

Not all members of Gen Z feel the same pressure. Richard, 22, who works in hospitality, said he does not prioritize posting about his nights out but recognizes that social media has increased awareness about the risks of alcohol abuse. He believes that while social media makes it easier to connect with friends and plan outings, it also exposes users to information about the negative consequences of excessive drinking.

The EduBirdie study suggests that wellness is a key motivation for many Gen Zers who are cutting back on alcohol. The “sober curious” movement has gained traction since 2018, encouraging people to reconsider their relationship with drinking. For some young adults, this means abstaining from alcohol altogether; for others, it means being more mindful about when and how much they drink.

As Gen Z continues to navigate adulthood in an era dominated by digital sharing and personal branding, their approach to alcohol reflects broader trends toward self-awareness and control over one’s public image. With nearly two-thirds rethinking their relationship with alcohol this year alone, it is clear that social media is influencing not just how young people socialize but also how they experience and consume alcohol.