New research from University College London (UCL) challenges the notion that Generation Z is a 'generation sensible', revealing sharp increases in binge drinking and drug use as they enter their early 20s. The study, which analyzed data from nearly 10,000 people born across the UK in 2000-02, found that 68% of 23-year-olds reported binge drinking in the past year, up from 53% at age 17. Nearly a third (29%) said they binge drank at least monthly, compared to just 10% at 17.
Binge drinking, defined as consuming six or more alcoholic drinks in one sitting, rose by 15 percentage points between ages 17 and 23. Drug use also increased substantially: 49% had tried cannabis by age 23 (up from 31% at 17), while 32% had tried harder drugs such as cocaine, ketamine, or ecstasy—more than triple the 10% at 17. The proportion using harder drugs ten times or more in the past year rose from 3% to 8%.
Other addictive behaviours also emerged: nearly a third (32%) of 23-year-olds reported gambling, though only 4% described it as problematic. Daily vaping surged from 3% at 17 to 19% at 23, while cigarette smoking remained stable at around 9%. Lead author Dr Aase Villadsen noted that while young people often experiment in early adulthood, the sharp rise in binge drinking and drug use is concerning, particularly if these behaviours become ingrained.
Dr Katherine Severi, chief executive of the Institute of Alcohol Studies, warned that young people are especially vulnerable to alcohol's effects as the brain develops into the mid-20s. She highlighted that university students reported higher rates of heavy drinking, pointing to the role of affordability, availability, and promotion of alcohol. 'Universities have a clear duty of care to ensure that students can thrive in a safe environment,' she said, urging caution over commercial relationships with alcohol companies.
