A recent poll by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) reveals heightened anxiety levels among U.S. adults heading into the 2025 holiday season, with economic worries and personal grief topping the list of concerns. The findings indicate a significant increase in anticipated seasonal stress compared to the previous two years, suggesting that broader societal pressures are impacting mental well-being during a traditionally celebratory time.
Economic and Healthcare Fears Dominate
The APA’s “Healthy Minds” poll, conducted with over 2,200 adults in November 2025, shows that 75% of Americans are anxious about the economy, while 71% express worry over healthcare costs and access. These financial and health-related stresses aren’t isolated; they contribute to a larger pattern of economic insecurity and rising healthcare burdens that many families face. This matters because economic instability directly impacts holiday spending, gift-giving traditions, and overall financial peace of mind.
Holiday Stress Intensifies
Specifically regarding the holidays, 41% of respondents expect greater stress this year—a jump from 28% in 2024 and 29% in 2023. Younger adults (18-34) report higher levels of anticipated stress (49%) compared to older adults (27%), likely due to greater financial pressures or less established support systems.
The most prominent stressors include grief over missing loved ones (48%) and financial strain related to gifts (46%). Family conflicts (32%) and loneliness (31%) also contribute significantly. One in five participants acknowledges that the holidays negatively affect their mental health—a stark reminder that this period is not universally joyful.
Mixed Feelings: Positivity Amidst Anxiety
Despite these anxieties, nearly half of those polled (44%) still view the holidays positively, citing joy from family gatherings, food, and gift exchange. Psychiatrists acknowledge this duality: “While some dread the holidays, they also offer a chance for connection, fun, and looking forward,” says Dr. Gregory Scott Brown of the University of Houston.
Experts Explain Rising Anxiety
Dr. Brown attributes the rising anxiety to a confluence of factors, including political tension, relentless news cycles, and unrealistic social media comparisons. These external pressures combine with underlying mental health conditions to amplify seasonal stress. Clinicians emphasize that anxiety often manifests subtly—through irritability, tension, and difficulty concentrating—long before becoming overwhelming.
Coping Strategies for a Stressful Season
To mitigate holiday stress, experts recommend practical steps:
- Delegate tasks: Share responsibilities with family and friends to lighten the emotional load.
- Prioritize self-care: Simplify to-do lists and make time for deep breathing exercises.
- Set boundaries: Protect your energy by saying “no” to obligations you can’t manage.
- Practice gratitude: Reflect on positive aspects of your life, even small comforts.
- Limit doom scrolling: Reduce exposure to distressing news and social media content.
- Seek support: If anxiety is severe or persistent, consult a mental health professional.
“If anyone is struggling with severe stress or anxiety, or feeling depressed, reach out to a mental health professional. There is never a reason to suffer in silence,” Dr. Brown says.
The APA’s findings underscore the need for proactive mental health management during the holiday season, acknowledging that economic realities, personal losses, and societal pressures significantly impact well-being.
