Special report: what really makes Gen Z happy?
In February, Dazed published an article asking ‘what would make Gen Z happy?’ after a 2024 report found that Gen Z is the unhappiest generation. From the nine-to-five work structure to a lack of free time and community, young people have been vocal about what they’re dissatisfied with — but what would fix it?
We had a huge response to a tweet by Dazed editor Halima, so decided to delve a bit deeper, running a survey titled ‘Generation Unhappy’ with over 400 Gen Z respondents. Here’s what we found.
Is it any surprise that Gen Z are dubbed the ‘Unhappy Generation’?
With retirement ages rising globally, 30 year olds expected to live with their parents for longer, the job market becoming increasingly dire and financial pressure mounting, Gen Z face more pressure than previous generations. It’s no wonder they’re being dubbed ‘the unhappy generation’.
Gen Z feel more isolated & lonely than previous generations
A large American survey, conducted by the American Survey Center, compared the experiences of four generations — Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials and Gen Z. Only 78% of Gen Z adults reported spending at least some of their teen years socialising with friends; this is in comparison with 84% of millennials, 89% of Gen Xers, and 88% of baby boomers.61% of Gen Z adults reported feeling lonely or isolated during at least some of their teen years, in comparison with 57% of millennials, 44% of Gen Xers, and 36% of baby boomers.
Why? For many reasons, but here are a few...
The cost of living crisis
“It’s so hard to find joy when all you can think about is how to make ends meet.”
- Julia, via Halima’s X
“I can’t afford to be who I want to. My clothes don’t represent who I really am. I can’t afford to buy books and magazines I want to read, or go to events I want to attend.”
- Gen Z Respondent, Dazed’s Generation Unhappy Survey 2025
Which means their access to affordable living spaces is restricted
“I think what would make me happy the most is probably getting my own place, or moving out of my parents house at the very least! It’s such a shock to go from college where I was able to live (and afford to live) independently to now being unable to afford rent at an entry level job.”
- Veeda, Via Halima’s X
Gen Z are prioritising community and friendships
“I am not satisfied with my life, and I am generally unhappy. I look back on my teenage years with a lot of regret that I didn't try to connect with people more, regret that I didn't foresee how much I would need lifelong friendships in the future.”
- Marluca Guadagsese Via Halima’s X
“In the next 5 years I'd like to see community being the main part of our lives.”
- Gen Z Respondent, Dazed’s Generation Unhappy Survey 2025
But they're finding it harder to meet people
“It’s hard to meet people. Since Covid, it feels awkward and difficult to approach people.”
- Gen Z Respondent, Dazed’s Generation Unhappy Survey 2025
So, what are the barriers to connection?
Living digitally (more like anti-social media):
The fear of being judged
“I feel that this society is lowkey judgemental in a way that different can either be good or bad and there is no in between and the safest option is to blend with the trends.”
- Gen Z Respondent, Dazed’s Generation Unhappy Survey 2025
“There is so much pressure to always better yourself, get good grades, if you have not figured out what exactly you want to do by the time that you are 18 then you are a failure. The modern world is overstimulating enough and I just want a moment where I don't feel like I'm constantly disappointing everyone.”
- Vee, 19 Via Halima’s X
“I feel like you will always be judged & your lifestyle choices will always be criticised.”
- Gen Z Respondent, Dazed’s Generation Unhappy Survey 2025
So, what makes Gen Z happy?
According to our survey of 400 Gen Z respondents globally:
Creativity & Personal Passions
“I really enjoy doing yoga and crafting because I feel like those are the only two times when I can really unplug from social media and be present in my thoughts and in my body."
- Laiyonelth, Dazed ICR Live Focus Group, February 2025
Stability
“Just stability would make me happy”
- No name Via Halima’s X
Parties!
“For me, more parties!! they’re honestly the highlight of my month when they happen, and i make so many new friends through them.”
- Lara Palmer Via Halima’s X
Nature
“Oh yeah and for things that would make my life better! A garden for sure, but maybe just having more time to explore hobbies would be a big one.”
- KT Via Halima’s X
Learning
“Learning even as an adult through friends, books, media, life experiences.”
- Gen Z Respondent, Dazed’s Generation Unhappy Survey 2025
Therapy
“I think I would be more secure in who I am, have a better understanding of myself, and be generally less distressed. I want to make a change now, but at times it really feels like it's out of my hands.”
- KT, Via Halima’s X
Guilt-free Relaxation
“The ability to relax!! It’s so much deeper than anything physical, being able to relax without feeling guilty for it or like I’m falling behind.”
- No name, Via Halima’s X
Pets
“I think animal companionship is one of the most precious things in the world.”
- Katerine, Via Halima’s X
God
“Memories and I try to see the silver lining in everything and God.”
- Gen Z Respondent, Dazed’s Generation Unhappy Survey 2025
Sex
“Sex as often as possible.”“Porn / jerking off.”
- Gen Z Respondent, Dazed’s Generation Unhappy Survey 2025
The final word
A big thank you to the Dazed audience for contributing to this research.
Dazed
