A reported 70% of Gen Z can’t sleep at night due to money worries, according to new findings. With Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell cautioning that this generation faces a tough job market, some young adults are coping through what’s called “bed rotting” and binge-watching TV instead of following more traditional budgeting methods.
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70% of Gen Z are so anxious about money that they can’t sleep—they’re dealing with it by bed rotting and watching TV instead of budgeting
Photo by Fortune
Key Takeaways:
- 70% of Gen Z report losing sleep over financial stress
- Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell warns of a “brutal job market”
- One in three young adults practice “bed rotting” to cope
- Many substitute budgeting with watching TV or staying in bed
- Concerns grow over Gen Z’s long-term financial and mental health
The Financial Worry Keeping Gen Z Awake
A mounting sense of anxiety is gripping Gen Z when it comes to money. According to recent data, 70% of this generation say their worries about finances keep them up at night. This pervasive unease underscores a broader struggle that is reshaping how they view work, savings, and overall financial planning.
A Brutal Job Market Looms
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s warning about a challenging job market for Gen Z adds to the tension. With potential hurdles to securing stable employment, many younger individuals feel unsure about their economic futures, compounding their stress and sense of vulnerability.
The Toll on Sleep
Sleep is one of the first casualties of Gen Z’s money troubles. Seven in ten report they cannot rest, constantly replaying financial concerns in their minds. This insomnia raises questions about the impact of prolonged sleep deprivation, both mentally and physically.
Unconventional Coping: Bed Rotting and TV
Rather than engaging in traditional budgeting or financial planning, some Gen Z adults turn to “bed rotting”—staying in bed for extended periods—to avoid dealing with their stresses. Others choose extensive TV-watching sessions to distract from money woes. While these methods may offer temporary relief, critics note they do little to address underlying financial challenges.
Broader Implications
The trend raises concerns about the long-term economic well-being of this generation. Prolonged financial stress coupled with avoidance behaviors might persist unless young people feel better equipped to manage their finances. Such statistics signal a need for increased awareness and support, as a fully rested and financially secure Gen Z will likely have far-reaching benefits for society at large.
