1 in 3 Gen Z Employees Feel Pressure to Drink at Christmas Parties

• Content
• People
• 1 in 3 Gen Z Employees Feel Pressure to Drink at Christmas Parties

10 December 2025

Data from the Institute for Public Policy Research shows that one in three Gen Z workers feels pressured to drink alcohol at work parties.

Additionally, 24 per cent thought drinking with more senior colleagues would improve their career progression.

This could indicate a generational shift in attitudes towards drinking culture, particularly among younger employees born between 1997 and 2012 (considered to be Gen Z).

Research from Alcohol Change UK, the charity behind Dry January, suggests that concerns about managing alcohol consumption are the highest among the 25-34 age group and lowest among those aged 55 and above.

Office rental agency Instant Offices has created five tips for surviving the work Christmas party sober.

 

1. Communicate your Boundaries

 

Colleagues may offer you drinks or jokingly ask why you’re not joining in. The key is to set your boundaries early, in a polite but firm way. You don’t need to give a long explanation, but a simple, “I’m not drinking tonight, but thank you!” is usually enough.

Shift your focus from the drinks to the people and the celebration. Engaging in lively conversation will keep you involved and make the event enjoyable, regardless of your sobriety. 

 

 

2. Have a Non-Alcoholic Drink in Hand  

 

If you’re worried about standing out without a drink in hand, there’s no need to be. Opt for a festive non-alcoholic drink, like a soda with cranberry juice, a mocktail, or a non-alcoholic alternative. Having a drink in hand not only helps you feel more included in the festivities but also makes people less likely to ask the dreaded question: “Why aren’t you drinking?” 

 

3. Find Your People 

 

If you’re feeling out of place, try to find colleagues who are also sober or those you’re already friendly with. There’s often comfort in numbers, and you may find that others are also choosing not to drink.  

 

4. Know Your Limits 

 

Being sober doesn’t mean you have to take on the role of babysitting others or get involved in situations that don’t suit you. You can still have a great time without taking on that responsibility. 

 

5. Leave When you Feel Comfortable to do So  

 

If you’re starting to feel overwhelmed or uncomfortable, it’s perfectly fine to leave early. The Christmas party doesn’t need to be a marathon. Simply excuse yourself politely, and if necessary, let a close colleague know you’re heading out. An early departure before the party becomes too raucous can also help you avoid any awkward situations the next day. A short “I’ve had a lovely time, but I’m off now” works perfectly. 

Embrace the party for what it is – a chance to connect with colleagues, share the joy of the season, and create great memories that don’t involve any hangovers. 

Picture: a photograph of two cocktail classes, decorated with a red bow. Red Christmas lights can be seen in the background Image Credit: Unsplash

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 10 December 2025

Share

---

---

Related Articles

---