Gen Z and Millennials face burnout by age 25

A recent survey reveals that young Americans, specifically Gen Zers and Millennials, are experiencing burnout at an alarming rate, often by the age of 25. This is a drastic shift from previous generations, who typically faced intense stress in their 40s. The Talker Research poll surveyed 2,000 adults from February 7 to 10, 2025. It found that one in four young adults feels burned out before they even reach 30. While the average American hits peak burnout at around 42, younger generations report this peak at just 25 years old. Experts suggest that the pressures of modern life, including financial instability and job stress, are significantly contributing to this early burnout. Financial issues are the top cause of stress for this age group, with 30% citing it as their main concern. Political tensions and work pressures also play major roles. Interestingly, older generations focus more on politics and health as their stressors, aligning with their life stages. The impact of social media is another key factor. Many young people feel pressured to keep up with an idealized version of life portrayed online. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and increased stress. Almost a third of those surveyed expect the coming year to be even more stressful, highlighting a growing concern about mental health. Despite these challenges, 42% of respondents remain hopeful for improvement this year. However, there is a consensus that today’s young adults face greater difficulties than those a decade ago. Experts emphasize the need to address the underlying causes of this burnout to prevent it from becoming a norm in society.