Ryan FowlerThe cost-of-living crisis is severely affecting the mental and physical health of younger generations, according to a new study by Benenden Health. The research highlights that financial worries are the primary source of stress for 40% of Gen Z and Millennials in 2023. The study also notes a higher impact on women and single individuals, with 45% in each group citing financial stress.
Benenden Health’s findings indicate a worrying trend of increased stress over the past year, with 32% of participants reporting more frequent stress compared to the previous year. Among those experiencing ‘severe’ stress, 65% say they feel stressed more often now than they did 12 months ago. This rise in stress levels coincides with the UK’s economic downturn, which has led to rising mortgage and rent prices and reduced job availability.
The physical consequences of prolonged stress are significant, with 41% of those surveyed struggling with sleep disturbances. Additionally, over a third report fatigue, while more than a quarter experience irritability, and a similar proportion suffer from depression.
Cheryl Lythgoe, matron at Benenden Health, explains the vicious cycle of stress and its effects on sleep, noting: “When we are stressed, our bodies release increased levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, which impacts our ability to sleep. This lack of sleep then increases our stress levels, creating a damaging cycle.”
Lythgoe emphasises the importance of managing stress and sleep to maintain overall health, particularly highlighting the role of REM sleep in mental health, memory development, and emotional processing.
