Gen Zs the most burnt out generation, survey reveals

Aussies are feeling happier compared to three years ago. But many are struggling with burnout, with one generation feeling it the most.

Aussies feel like they are better off for the first time in three years – but many want to shed excess kilos and three quarters of people are feeling burnt out from work.

Bupa’s annual Pulse Check survey reveals that Gen Xers and men were the biggest cohorts who felt like things had improved for them.

The survey of 2000 people aged between 18 and 79 also found almost 60 per cent of all participants thought their quality of life was better than average.

Fewer Australians felt their life was worse than the previous year, including only 32 per cent of those aged between 40 and 49 (down from 39 per cent) and 31 per cent of 60 to 79 year olds (down from 38 per cent).

Dee, Andrew and Meagan feel better off now compared to three years ago. Photo: Tim Carrafa.

People with mortgages and who worked full time were also less likely to say they were worse off.

There was also an increase in Aussies exploring new health and wellbeing trends, as 61 per cent of participants said they wanted to lose weight.

Of that number, 17 per cent would consider weight loss medications like Ozempic in order to achieve it, despite the side effects.

But cost was the biggest barrier, followed by lack of time and then motivation.

The report also revealed that three quarters of people who were working were also struggling with burnout, with the biggest contributing factor due to heavy workload, followed by work-life balance and then a lack of resources.

Younger Australians were feeling it the most, with a whoppping four in five under the age of 40 saying they were burnt out.

More Australians also thought technology had a negative impact on their mental wellbeing, with 37 per cent expressing concern (up from 34 per cent).

While 49 per cent of people under 40 said they were negatively impacted by technology, they were more likely to use it to manage their health than any other cohort.

But one in ten people had also been trying digital detoxes to reduce their stress levels, the survey found.

Young people are the most likely to feel burnt out.

Younger Aussies were also leading the way in cutting back on drinking booze.

They were the biggest cohort within the 45 per cent of participants who said they had reduced their alcohol consumption.

Bupa health insurance managing director Katie Williams said that she was encouraged by Australians’ outlook on their quality of life and other factors.

“It’s encouraging that Australians are more optimistic about their quality of life, health, and wellbeing, with improvements in mental health, work-life balance, fitness, and finances compared to other years,” she said.

“More people are putting themselves first and prioritising self-care. They’re adopting healthier habits such as healthy eating and reducing alcohol and are eager to explore new trends in health and fitness”.

Dee, Andrew and Meagan find balance in their health and wellbeing to stay fit, healthy and happy. Photo: Tim Carrafa.

Health and wellbeing is important to personal trainer Dee Praisi, 28 who wants to ensure she can stay active as she ages.

“Exercising is important because I want the ability to move well as I age, and it makes me feel good,” she said.

She said finding an enjoyable activity is important so that you “look forward to exercising”.

Originally published as Gen Zs the most burnt out generation, survey reveals