2024: A Year Filled with Stress for Many Americans

In a year full of financial worries and political tensions, stress has become a major issue for many Americans. A recent survey shows the average person experiences stress strong enough to make their head “spin” about 156 times a year, or three times a week.

a man in a suit with his hands on his head looking distressed. He is against a yellow background.

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This survey, done by Talker Research, looked at 2,000 adults. It revealed that 41% of people feel their stress levels are at their highest right now. Many also report brain fog just as often as stress headaches—about three times a week.

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Some hope their worry will ease by the end of the year, but 26% worry it could get worse. Despite this, 45% of those surveyed said they have never taken a mental health day from work due to stress.

Stressed businessman at office desk with laptop and crumpled papers

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Comparing to past years, 38% say 2024 is more stressful than 2023 but less than 2022. The biggest stressors include money (35%), the economy (28%), health (25%), and politics (20%).

Tired businesswoman with headset having a headache from working at office

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Half of those surveyed think stress leads to getting sick. Winter is often seen as the most stressful season due to cold weather and the holidays. Many Americans show signs of stress like trouble sleeping (42%), irritability (37%), and headaches (33%).

Weary Business Professionals Taking Break on Office Floor

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How do you handle tension? People turn to different ways to deal with stress. Music (47%), TV or movies (39%) and snacks (17%) are common choices. However, 71% of people believe lowering stress would improve their mental health, but many struggle to fit it into their busy lives.

2024: A Year Filled with Stress for Many Americans was originally published on wibc.com