Nearly 2 In 5 Americans At Peak Stress Levels

Looking at their current stress levels, the survey found that 41% said they’re at their peak stress for the year so far. ALEXEI MARIDASHVILI VIA UNSPLASH.

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New research shows that the average American experiences stress 156 times a year, which can cause their head to spin.

A survey of 2,000 adults found that these stress headaches break down to three times a week and that respondents recalled having brain fog just as often.

Looking at their current stress levels, the survey found that 41% said they’re at their peak stress for the year so far.

Conducted by Talker Research for Traditional Medicinals, the results showed that while 30% are hopeful that their stress level will go down by the end of the year, a quarter of respondents (26%) think there’s a chance it’ll go up.

Yet, 45% have never taken a mental health day or sick day from work solely because of stress.

Comparing their stress levels to previous years, 38% of those surveyed said that 2024 has been more stressful than 2023 but less so than 2022 and the preceding years.

What is it about this year that’s worsening their woes? Respondents can’t stop thinking about their finances (35%), the economy (28%) and their physical health (25%).

Others are bearing the burden of the news landscape — particularly the 2024 presidential election (20%) and other world issues (19%).

“With cold and flu season approaching, self-care and stress management are more important than ever,” said Kristel Corson, chief marketing officer at Traditional Medicinals. “Half of those surveyed believe that stress is often the main cause of them getting sick, and when asked what season is most stressful, the highest percentage of respondents (26%) said winter given seasonal changes and the holidays.”