Gen-Z are more likely to prioritise ‘self-care’ when they’re ill according to a new poll, while Boomers carry on life as normal. As cold and flu season sets in, a poll of 2,000 adults revealed a generational divide in how people care for themselves when they’re unwell.
Gen Z, typically between 18 and 28 years old, are far more inclined to take sick leave from work to rest and heal, with 55% willing to do so.
By comparison, only 30% of Baby Boomers, those aged 61 to 79, would adopt the same strategy, showing many continue to embrace the traditional 'keep calm and carry on' mentality, battling through instead of allowing time for proper recovery.
Gen Z are also more prepared to step back from social activities, physical exercise, and domestic duties, with 83% believing that slowing down actually speeds up recovery.
Boomers, meanwhile, favour more conventional illness management methods - turning to non-prescription medications, consuming nutritious food, and securing additional bed rest, reports the Daily Star.
Yet, 45% of Boomers still admit they feel bad for taking time off work to look after themselves, and 24% worry about being judged by their manager. However, overall three in ten also say they don't prioritise self-care enough.
Dr Roger Henderson, NHS GP and spokesperson for Olbas, which commissioned the research, said: "Many people and families are now taking a gentler approach to 'sick days', with more focus on rest and simple comforts rather than just 'pushing through'.
"Recovery is now seen as a chance to support both body and mind, with good sleep, hydration and calm activities all helping along the way.
"Small rituals can make a big difference too, such as steam inhalation, natural decongestants, warm baths or even propping up pillows at night can ease symptoms and bring comfort.
"These little moments of care not only help us feel better but also give peace of mind for caregivers during cold and flu season."
For Gen Z, self-care centres around minor comforts that make feeling poorly more tolerable, such as drawing a hot bath or snuggling up with a beloved TV programme or film. Yet four in ten Boomers confess they would prefer to soldier on at work rather than take time off.
Nevertheless, 34% of all respondents surveyed via OnePoll believe perspectives will change in years to come, with greater focus on making self-care a priority.
A further 40% reckon workplaces will evolve even more, offering increased remote working and flexible schedules to help staff recuperate when they're feeling under the weather.
Rachel Ramsden spokesperson for Olbas, said: "Self-care was perhaps once thought of as indulgent, but it's now a necessity for many people.
"Being comfortable to rest and recover, embracing your personal ritual for periods of illness and having a support system in place that allows this is essential.
"A lot has happened in recent years, which has impacted how we care for ourselves and general attitudes towards cold and flu recovery.
"With winter approaching, it's important that people recognise the signs of illness and know how they can help themselves recover as quickly as possible – whether that is through self-care, natural medication or visiting their local pharmacy for more advice."
