Political climate a top stressor for adults, more than previous elections: Study

The political ads, the television coverage and the constant sound bites appear to be taking a psychological toll on many Americans. A new study by The Harris Poll, on behalf of the American Psychological Association , found that people are very worried about the nation's political climate.

The study surveyed about 3,300 adults. Around 69% of respondents said that the presidential election is a significant source of stress, making it the No. 3 stressor for respondents. U.S. politics was close behind at 62%.

The survey found the stress over the 2024 election is higher than what Americans experienced in the previous two presidential elections in 2020 and 2016.

The top two stressors have been major issues on the campaign trail. No. 1 is the future of our nation at 77%, followed by the economy at 73%.

The CEO of the American Psychological Association, Dr. Arthur Evans, said people have faced a political climate that is highly charged, which has led to the erosion of civil discourse and strained relationships with friends and relatives.

He said, "isolating ourselves from our communities is a recipe for adding more stress to our lives."

Despite the somber data, it seems that the mood is stirring up political change, with 51% of adults saying they feel more inclined to volunteer for a cause.

People are also feeling inclined to vote, with 77% of respondents saying they would do so. Despite the positive potential, 72% of respondents fear the election could lead to political violence.

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