Election stress takes a toll on Americans’ mental health ahead of 2024 presidential race

The build-up to the 2024 presidential election in the United States appears to be taking a significant toll on the mental health of many Americans, according to a recent survey conducted by Forbes Health. The study highlights the growing prevalence of election-induced stress and anxiety, particularly among younger demographics, and its impact on both personal and professional aspects of life.

The survey indicates that more than 60% of participants reported their mental health has been adversely affected by the upcoming election. A range of negative emotions have been cited, with 46% experiencing anxiety, 37% stress, and 31% feelings of fear. The impact of this anxiety is notable across different generations, with Gen Z, millennials, and Gen X reporting higher levels of negativity compared to baby boomers.

The emotional reactions to the election, however, are not solely negative. A portion of those surveyed expressed positive feelings; 27% reported optimism, 22% felt excitement, and smaller percentages experienced happiness or relief. Interestingly, the survey found gender differences in the expression of these emotions. Males were more likely to express positive emotions such as excitement and optimism, while females tended to cite anxiety and stress more frequently.

The stress of the election period is not limited to emotional responses but extends into the workplace and educational settings. About 28% of respondents acknowledged a decline in their performance due to election-related stress, with Gen Z and millennials being the most affected demographic groups. Gen Z reported a significant 53% negatively affected, which starkly contrasts with just 10% of baby boomers experiencing similar impacts.

Dr. Rufus Tony Spann, a certified school psychologist and Forbes Health Advisory Board member, suggests that election anxiety is a natural response to the weighty decisions voters face, often amplified by past post-election outcomes that may have unfolded unfavourably for some communities. This anxiety can manifest physically and emotionally, affecting individuals’ decision-making processes.

Social interactions during the election season are also proving to be a potential stress factor, as nearly half of the survey participants express anxiety about spending the upcoming holiday season with family and friends. This sentiment is particularly pronounced among younger Americans, with 60% of Gen Z and 54% of millennials apprehensive about social gatherings during this time.

Social media, as both a source of information and unrest, plays a crucial role in this scenario. Many respondents feel overwhelmed by the flood of political content on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and news publications. Consequently, some are opting to reduce their social media usage. About 26% have consciously cut back on their social media time, with 6% abandoning it altogether.

The perceived effect of social media on the democratic process is mixed; while a sizeable portion of respondents believes it harms democratic engagement, others see it as beneficial. This divergence is visible across age groups, with younger generations more likely to perceive social media as helpful, while older demographics are inclined to view it as detrimental.

Amidst this complex picture of election anxiety, both Dr. Spann and neuropsychologist Judy Ho, Ph.D., underscore the importance of recognising and managing triggers. Strategies such as setting boundaries on news consumption and ensuring time for personal well-being are recommended to mitigate stress levels.

As the nation approaches the 2024 election, these findings spotlight the intricate relationship between politics, mental health, and daily life for many Americans, providing insight into the broader psychological landscape shaped by contemporary political climates.

Source: Noah Wire Services