Gen Zers are so terrified of a recession that they’re ditching doom spending, ordering Happy Meals, and using ChatGPT for free therapy

• Gen Z is preparing for a potential recession with “no-buy lists” and other thrifty habits. They’re turning to free AI therapists, fast-food survey rewards, and dumpster diving to weather the downturn—especially as they’re the most vulnerable to layoffs and rising prices.

The “lipstick effect” has historically been a popular way to gauge a recession against spending habits—with shoppers opting to buy smaller luxuries, like makeup, during a downturn versus cars and property.

But Gen Zers are redefining their recession experience through all the things they won’t buy. From turning to free ChatGPT bots in lieu of costly human therapists, to creating “no buy” lists including clothes and beauty treatments, they’re proving they’re willing to do anything to save a buck.

“Right now there’s a lot of economic uncertainty,” TikTok user @whatshesaves said in a video, adding that she is tackling $9,000 worth of debt. “I am actually trying to go on this journey of eliminating as many things out of my life, in living more intentionally, not just going shopping.”

Her TikTok video clearly resonated with what a lot of young people are feeling right now, raking in over 2.6 million views and 14,500 comments. Users chimed in under the video with their frugal hacks: surviving off Burger King survey rewards, eating kids’ meals as an adult, and dumpster diving for essentials.

Another user shared the tricks young adults like herself pulled out during the 2008 recession. She divulged such tactics as sneaking into hotel buffets and grabbing extra condiments at restaurants to take home—potential inspiration for the young generation facing an economic crisis today.

While no generation is immune to an economic downturn, Gen Z is considered especially vulnerable. They’re the lowest on the workforce totem pole with the smallest salaries, often shackled with student debt, still trying to understand their finances as many generations before them did in their twenties.

Moreover, Gen Zers don’t have the savings piled up that their Gen X counterparts do, so cutting back on spending in small ways has become a way to actively “recession-proof” their lives.

One popular way young people have been sharing their saving hacks is through “no-buy lists,” detailing all the things they’re no longer splurging on during the recession. One user on TikTok shared her rejection roster: blankets, polyester “plastic” clothing, shoes, occasion outfits, trinkets, and accessories. She’s also opted out of salon visits—like nail and hair services—alongside buying home decor. Another user echoed her plans to cut back spending on clothes as well as vacations and dates.