Psychotherapist explains why Gen Z are having a 'fridge cigarette' in the afternoon

A psychotherapist has explained just why Gen Z are having to a whip out a ‘fridge cigarette’ in the afternoon.

If you’re not as chronically on the internet as some of us (ahem, me), you’re probably imagining some weird kind of chilled or frosty rollie.

But fear not, I’m not talking about some weird new trend where youngsters are lighting up cold ciggies – there’s not actually any smoking involved.

Instead, it’s simply that glorious ‘tschhh’ sound of can opening. And no, it’s not alcohol either. Oh yes, it’s the one and only, a crisp, cold Diet Coke.

Videos related to ‘fridge cigarettes’ have absolutely done the rounds on social media since one TikTok user coined the term for that perfect pick-me-up fizzy drink fix - and it seems they really actually can help the edge off.

There's nothing quite like a fridge cigarette. (Carla Gottgens/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

“Fridge cigarette after a long day,” video captions read, and lads, of course I’ve posted on socials about my own fridge ciggie in the afternoon of a hefty shift.

A psychotherapist in New York City has said the trend has become such a thing because a nice can of Diet Coke can act as an ‘emotional stand-in.’

"It becomes a way [for people] to pause, reset or reward themselves," Jonathan Alpert told Fox News Digital.

"[It's] a small ritual that offers structure or comfort in the middle of a hectic day. It can be grounding for some people."

The expert even went on to say how cracking open the can itself can provide a sensory experience in the same way that smoking a cigarette can.

“The crisp sound, the carbonation and the cold hit all offer a quick, reliable burst of stimulation or relief, especially during stressful or transitional moments in the day,” he added.

Alpert noted how he views the trend as less about the ‘drink itself’ and simply more about ‘the ritual.’

Although, it’s not all so great for us Diet Coke-heads, even if a fizzy drink is ‘certainly a healthier choice’ than cigarettes.

The psychotherapist warned that when the drink becomes a ‘daily emotional crutch’ it can potentially ‘reinforce dependency patterns.’

Pass me a cold one. (Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

“Particularly if it is being used to manage anxiety, suppress appetite or avoid discomfort,” Alpert explained.

Naturopathic doctor, Debra Muth also echoed the concerns that, while it works as a pause to ‘trigger stress relief’, your body is ‘asking for dopamine’ not artificial sweetener.

“Both nicotine and Diet Coke hijack your dopamine pathways,” Muth added.

And sure, I’m taking this warning seriously lads but in all honesty, I already can’t wait for my 3pm fridge cigarette later.

LADbible has contacted Coca Cola for comment.