Sentiment of inflation negatively impacts sexual health and social interactions, according to a survey
A recent survey conducted by YouGov and commissioned by Kleinanzeigen.de reveals that inflation in Germany has taken a toll on adults' financial situations, self-confidence, and social lives.
The data shows that about 34% of respondents, mostly aged 55 and above, reported that concerns over inflation did not affect their emotional well-being. This suggests that the majority of adults feel some psychological strain from inflation worries.
The financial concerns have affected adults' social interactions and personal confidence as they adjust to higher expenses. Despite relatively moderate inflation rates around 2% in mid-2025, about 18% of respondents report a lower self-esteem because they can afford less. Young adults aged 18 to 24 are most likely to report that friendships have suffered (21%), and those aged 25 to 34 are most likely to say they have lower self-esteem (25%).
The survey findings also indicate a discrepancy between the respondents' perceptions and the actual inflation rates for food, energy, and services. While food and service prices increased modestly by 2% and 3.3% respectively, energy prices decreased by 3.5% last year, somewhat easing the overall inflation burden.
However, the lingering psychological impacts may stem from past inflation peaks during the COVID-19 crisis nearly three years ago, suggesting a sustained influence on people’s financial confidence and social comfort.
The survey ties into the broader economic context, where income growth expectations remain unchanged but spending growth expectations have declined, reflecting cautious consumer behavior linked to inflation perceptions. This cautiousness can translate to reduced social activities and lower self-confidence in financial decision-making.
Moreover, the survey reveals that more than half (53%) of respondents say they have observed an increase in energy prices, but they have actually decreased by about 3.5%. Similarly, almost as many (52%) respondents say that services have become more expensive, but they have only increased by 3.3%.
Interestingly, only about one in ten (11%) say they have less money and less desire for dates overall. On the other hand, one in ten adults aged 25 to 44 have adjusted their family planning due to the economic situation, wanting to have fewer children. Seven percent of adults aged 25 to 44 have postponed their desire to have children due to the economic situation.
The highest inflation rate in Germany since reunification was measured almost three years ago, in October and November 2022, at 8.8%. However, in June 2025, the inflation rate was 2.0%, 0.2 percentage points lower than in June 2024.
In conclusion, inflation in Germany has contributed to strained financial situations and diminished social life quality among adults, with a notable psychological component influenced by past inflation experiences and current moderate price increases. The survey results underscore the need for continued vigilance and support for those struggling with the economic impacts of inflation.
- Despite the relatively moderate inflation rates, mental health concerns are prevalent, with 34% of respondents aged 55 and above reporting no emotional impact from inflation, while the majority feel some psychological strain.
- Lifestyle changes and relationship strains are evident among young adults, as those aged 18 to 24 report that friendships have suffered, while adults aged 25 to 34 are most likely to report lower self-esteem.
- Health-and-wellness is affected as adults adapt to higher expenses, with 18% of respondents reporting a decline in self-esteem due to reduced financial means.
