Going out less often, fewer dates and sex, lower self-esteem: Inflation is seriously dampening the mood of some people in Germany, as a new YouGov survey shows.

Many go out less, some have less sex and less self-confidence: A survey reveals the astonishing effects of inflation on human interactions. More than half of adults in Germany say they currently go to restaurants, the cinema, or the theater less often than before.

Seven percent of respondents say their love life has worsened due to financial stress. This statement about a worse sex life is primarily made by men (9 percent) and middle-aged people, meaning those aged 25 to 44 (11 percent).

However, more than a third (34 percent) also say that inflation does not affect their well-being; this is particularly true among older people, i.e. people older than 55.

The data comes from a representative YouGov survey commissioned by Kleinanzeigen.de (formerly eBay Classifieds). More than 2,000 adults were surveyed at the end of June.

According to the survey, more than a quarter of adults (26 percent) feel more anxious and stressed than before inflation. Around 18 percent report lower self-esteem because they can afford less. Those aged 25 to 34 are most likely to say this (25 percent). Women say this more often (20 percent) than men (16 percent).

Seventeen percent of respondents say that friendships are suffering because they're currently doing fewer things with friends. Young adults, of all people, are disproportionately likely to say this (21 percent of 18- to 24-year-olds). They are also the ones who most strongly agree with the statement that they have fewer resources for dates and less desire for them (19 percent). Overall, only about one in ten (11 percent) says this.

Family planning is also stalling in parts of society. One in ten 25- to 44-year-olds have decided to adjust their plans due to the economic situation—they want fewer children. Seven percent have even postponed their desire to have children altogether.

The zeitgeist seems pessimistic. Some of the answers are based on false assumptions and a sentiment that seems to have crept in and become entrenched in recent years.

Three-quarters (78 percent) believe food prices have increased compared to the previous year. More than half (53 percent) say they have observed an increase in energy prices. Almost as many (52 percent) say services have become more expensive.

However, while food and services prices actually increased by 2.0 and 3.3 percent year-on-year, respectively, according to the Federal Statistical Office, energy prices actually fell by around 3.5 percent.

In June, the inflation rate was just 2.0 percent (0.2 percentage points lower than in June 2024).

The highest inflation rate in Germany since reunification was recorded almost three years ago. In October and November 2022, it was 8.8 percent.