Archive · 20 Aug 2025
‘Fridge Cigarette’ Trend: Gen Z’s Stress Relief Ritual
Gen Z has started a new trend called the 'fridge cigarette' where they grab a cold fizzy drink from the fridge when they are stressed.
It's like taking a quick break, similar to a smoke break, but with a drink.
Experts are concerned because this could mean people start depending on these drinks to feel better.
This reliance can be a problem if it stops people from learning how to deal with stress in healthier ways.
It also may affect your health, even if the drinks are sugar-free.
It's important to remember to enjoy things in moderation and find other ways to cope.
The 'fridge cigarette' trend involves taking a fizzy drink from the fridge for stress relief.
It's popular among Gen Z as a coping mechanism for stress and burnout.
Experts suggest it may be an emotional reliance on a habit for self-soothing.
The ritual's appeal is its simplicity and the anticipation it provides.
Excessive reliance on such habits could lead to emotional dependence and may mask underlying stressors.
- Who
- Primarily Gen Z, using fizzy drinks like Diet Coke as a stress reliever.
- What
- A trend of using a fizzy drink from the fridge to manage stress.
- When
- The trend has taken off recently, specifically during the summer.
- Where
- Originating among Gen Z users, spread through platforms like TikTok.
- Why
- To provide a quick sense of control, pleasure, or distraction during stressful moments.
Potential Downsides
Perceived Benefits
Dependence
Potential Downsides
Can lead to emotional dependence and reliance on a habit loop.
Perceived Benefits
A harmless coping mechanism.
Effect on Stressors
Potential Downsides
May mask underlying stressors requiring deeper attention.
Perceived Benefits
Offers quick control and distraction.
- Trend Name
- 'Fridge Cigarette'
- Target Group
- Gen Z
- Action
- Grabbing a cold, fizzy drink from the fridge
- Purpose
- Stress relief and emotional regulation
- Expert Opinion
- May lead to emotional dependence and mask underlying stressors
- Potential issues
- May discourage the development of more adaptive coping skills.