New Jersey sees steep decline in mental health issues like anxiety, depression: Study

Are you over the pandemic blues?

According to a study, most people in New Jersey are getting there.

Virtual medical assistants DocVA gathered data on anxiety and depression from the CDC to analyze the changes in mental health issues in each state since 2020. It then ranked the states from highest to lowest improvement rate.

New Jersey placed second, after residents reported having 48.43% fewer mental health issues since the pandemic. In 2020, 36.07% of people in New Jersey felt they were experiencing anxiety or depression, and only 18.6% in 2024.

The only state that was higher was Illinois, where residents have seen the biggest decrease in mental health issues. Residents have reported 50.34% fewer cases of anxiety and depression, with 37.12% of people suffering from symptoms of anxiety or depression in 2020, and just 18.43% in 2024.

Rounding out the top five are Hawaii, New York and California. Florida, Maryland, Louisiana and Virginia round out the top 10.

“During the pandemic, mental health issues in America surged as individuals faced unprecedented levels of stress, isolation, and uncertainty," said Nathan Barz, Founder and CEO of DocVA. "Post-pandemic, we see the lingering effects of being shut off from each other, and more than ever we realize the urgent need for human connection, support systems, and the freedom to experience normal life.

“These things are vital for us to survive, as the findings clearly show mental health issues improving since restrictions lifted. Human beings need each other, and as more people recognize the importance of mental well-being, the challenge remains to bridge the gap between awareness and action, ensuring everyone has the support they need to thrive.”

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: New Jersey sees steep decline in mental health issues like anxiety, depression: Study