Growing Anxiety During the Holidays
As the holiday season approaches, many Americans are feeling an increase in anxiety compared to previous years. A recent Healthy Minds Poll has shown that a significant percentage of U.S. adults, specifically 41%, are bracing for a more stressful holiday season this year. This marks a notable rise from the past couple of years, where only 28% in the previous year expressed similar concerns.
Younger Adults Feel the Pressure
Interestingly, younger adults, particularly those aged 18 to 34, appear to be more affected by holiday stress than their older counterparts. Approximately 49% of this younger demographic anticipates a more stressful holiday season, as opposed to just 27% of those aged 65 and older. Despite this rising anxiety, there is a glimmer of positivity; 44% of respondents in 2025 believe that the holiday season has a beneficial impact on their mental health, which is an improvement from the 38% reported in the prior two years.
Positive Aspects of the Holiday Season
When it comes to what Americans are looking forward to this holiday season, spending time with family and friends tops the list for 61% of adults surveyed. Many are also excited about enjoying delicious meals (53%) and participating in gift exchanges (31%). In addition, activities such as decorating their homes and preparing holiday meals are anticipated by about one-fourth of the population, emphasizing the importance of traditions and togetherness during this time of year.
Concerns Weigh Heavy on Minds
However, the holiday season is not without its challenges. Nearly half of respondents (48%) have expressed worries about missing loved ones or dealing with grief during this festive period. Furthermore, 46% are troubled by the financial burden of holiday shopping. Loneliness and complex family dynamics are also significant concerns, affecting 31% and 32% of adults, respectively. Acknowledging these feelings is crucial; as APA President Theresa Miskimen Rivera, M.D. states, "In stressful times, the best gift we can give ourselves is to live in the moment and prioritize our personal connections."
Economic and Health Care Pressures
In addition to holiday-related stressors, broader societal issues are contributing to the anxiety felt across the nation. A significant finding from the Healthy Minds Poll is that 75% of adults cite the economy as a source of anxiety, with 44% being very anxious about it. The state of health care is another major concern, affecting the mental well-being of more than two-thirds of respondents (71%). Notably, women report higher anxiety levels regarding health care (43% very anxious) compared to men (35%). Furthermore, older adults (43% of those aged 64 and older) exhibit a greater degree of anxiety than younger individuals (36% of those aged 18 to 34).
Other Concerning Issues
Beyond economic and health care worries, there are several other pressing issues on Americans' minds. Political tensions (65%), gun violence (64%), and hate speech or hate crimes (63%) have emerged as significant concerns. Additionally, international conflicts (58%) and immigration issues affecting deportations and ICE raids (52%) continue to weigh heavily on the minds of many. These findings underline the multifaceted nature of anxiety affecting today's society.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the Healthy Minds Poll reveal about holiday stress?
The Healthy Minds Poll indicated that 41% of Americans anticipate more stress during the holidays this year compared to last year, reflecting growing anxiety levels.
How do younger and older adults differ in their holiday stress levels?
Younger adults, especially those aged 18-34, demonstrate higher levels of anticipated stress (49%) compared to older adults (27% of those 65 and older).
What positive aspects are associated with the holidays according to the poll?
Despite stress, 44% of respondents feel that holidays positively impact their mental health, with spending time with loved ones being the most anticipated joy.
What are some common concerns related to the holidays?
Concerns include grief over missing loved ones (48%), financial burdens of gifts (46%), and difficulties in family dynamics (32%).
What other issues contribute to anxiety among Americans?
Main concerns include the economy (75% feel anxiety), health care (71%), political tensions (65%), gun violence (64%), and social issues like hate speech (63%).
