A profound sense of anxiety about the future is gripping the United States, with new research revealing that a staggering 76 percent of Americans find the state of their nation a significant source of stress.
A Nation Under Pressure
According to a report from the American Psychological Association, based on a survey of more than 3,000 U.S. adults conducted in August 2025, political division and loneliness are taking a severe toll on the population. The study paints a picture of a country deeply troubled by its current trajectory.
This widespread unease is occurring against a backdrop of intense political upheaval. The research was released as the country endured the longest government shutdown in U.S. federal history, causing travel chaos nationwide. This period followed more than ten months of mass protests against the Trump administration's crackdown on immigration.
The Youth Exodus
Perhaps the most striking finding is the desire among younger generations to leave. The survey found that an overwhelming 63 percent of adults aged 18 to 34 have contemplated relocating to another country due to the state of the nation.
This sentiment is not confined to the young. More than half of all parents surveyed, 53 percent, reported having similar thoughts about moving abroad.
When participants were asked to choose words that represent America today, the responses highlighted a nation in conflict with itself. More than a third selected 'corruption' (38 percent) and 'fear' (32 percent), though a significant 41 percent also chose 'freedom'. Report authors noted that these choices reflect a nation grappling with its identity, where ideals coexist with deep concerns.
Isolation and Economic Strain
The stress of living in a divided society appears to be having a profound psychological impact. Among Americans who said division is a significant source of stress, 61 percent reported often or sometimes feeling isolated. This compares to just 43 percent of those who did not consider division a major stressor.
Beyond political concerns, the economy remains a paramount worry for Americans. The study found that 75 percent cited the economy as a significant source of stress, followed by work (69 percent), housing costs (65 percent), mass shootings (65 percent), and the rise of artificial intelligence (57 percent).
These financial anxieties are grounded in everyday experience. A separate October Harris poll found that 74 percent of Americans saw their regular monthly household costs increase by at least $100 in the last year, with some reporting hikes of between $500 and $749. These rising costs were reported uniformly across political affiliations, affecting Democrats, Republicans, and independents alike.
Furthermore, about 54 percent of Americans surveyed believe the economy is currently in a recession. This perception is compounded by views on presidential policy; a recent ABC News/Washington Post/Ipsos poll indicated that six in ten voters felt President Donald Trump's management of inflation and tariffs were doing more harm than good to the American economy.
