Survey: Generation Z Stressed - Young German workers face alarming stress surge, study warns

A new study reveals rising stress levels among German workers, with younger employees suffering the most. Nearly half of Generation Z respondents reported high stress, while older age groups showed lower rates. The findings also highlight a sharp increase in work-related mental illnesses over the past decade.

The research found that 82% of participants experienced at least one stress-related ailment in the last three months. Headaches affected 55% of respondents, while 48% struggled with sleep disturbances and 47% felt inner restlessness. Stress levels decreased steadily with age, from 48% among Gen Z workers to just 20% among baby boomers.

Work-related mental health issues, particularly burnout, have surged in Germany. AOK reported 7.7 incapacity-to-work cases per 1,000 members in 2023—up from far lower numbers in 2005. This translates to around 186,000 affected insured individuals. Sick days linked to mental health also rose dramatically, from 13.9 to 174.8 per 1,000 members.

Long working hours and job demands were key factors, especially for younger employees. The study noted that 23% of workers received no stress management support from employers. Flexible hours and remote work were among the most common measures offered to those with access to such programmes.

The data confirms a growing mental health awareness crisis in the workplace, particularly among younger staff. Physical symptoms like headaches and sleep problems remain widespread. Employers' efforts to reduce stress vary, with many workers still lacking access to support programmes.