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In 2023, a remarkable 25% of American adults reported experiencing high levels of stress, marking a significant increase from the 19% reported in 2019, according to a survey by the American Psychological Association conducted in August of that year.

This surge in stress isn’t surprising, given the multitude of challenges Americans faced during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021. From widespread shutdowns and social distancing measures to economic uncertainty, canceled vacations, and the shift to a 24/7 remote-work culture, individuals across the nation were confronted with unprecedented upheaval.

Although the official public health emergency response to COVID-19 concluded on May 11, 2023, numerous stressors persist. Lingering effects of the pandemic, coupled with a host of other concerns such as economic instability, inflation, technological advancements, climate change anxieties, global conflicts, and societal inequities, continue to contribute to the collective sense of unease. The looming presidential election further adds to the mounting pressure felt by Americans.

Analyzing data from the APA survey, Wysa identified the primary stressors affecting Americans. With responses from 3,185 adults, the survey echoed the sentiment shared by APA psychologists that our society is grappling with the psychological impacts of collective trauma.

Unveiling the State of Employee Mental Health

The modern workplace increasingly contends with the growing challenge of mental health issues among employees.

As per the APA survey, stress levels have surged across all age groups between 18 and 64. Particularly noteworthy is the significant increase in the proportion of individuals aged 18-34 rating their average stress level between 8 to 10, rising from 26% in 2019 to 34% in 2023. Notably, only seniors aged 65 and above reported a slight decrease in stress levels during the same period.

However, despite the prevalence of mental health struggles, many individuals find it challenging to discuss their issues. A staggering 67% of adults feel their problems aren’t “bad enough” to warrant stress, while 62% hesitate to open up about their mental health concerns, fearing they may burden others. Paradoxically, while 81% of adults report good or better mental health, 37% acknowledge having been diagnosed with a mental health condition.

Navigating Financial Stress: A Common Concern

Among the myriad stressors faced by Americans, financial worries loom large, with profound implications for mental well-being.

Survey respondents ranked “finances/money” as one of their top two stressors, with 40% citing it, closely followed by “the economy” at 32%. Other related concerns, including housing costs and healthcare expenses, also featured prominently. Notably, parents were disproportionately affected, with 66% of adults with children in the household expressing concerns about finances, compared to 39% of childless adults.

The economic landscape at the time of the survey underscored these anxieties, with a cooling labor market, rising interest rates, and escalating consumer prices exacerbating financial strain. Research indicates a concerning correlation between chronic stress and adverse physiological effects, highlighting the interconnectedness of mental and physical health. Notably, Americans aged 35 to 44 experienced a significant uptick in mental health diagnoses and chronic illnesses between 2019 and 2023, underscoring the need for holistic approaches to wellness.

Harnessing the Power of Mental Health Apps for Employee Well-being

In response to the escalating mental health challenges faced by employees, the adoption of evidence-based mental health apps emerges as a promising solution.

These apps offer a convenient avenue for individuals to access expert-led therapy experiences, providing advantages such as accessibility and flexibility. However, it’s crucial to consider the potential limitations of text-based therapy compared to traditional in-person sessions.

By leveraging technology and evidence-based approaches, employers can empower their workforce to proactively manage their mental health and foster a supportive workplace culture conducive to overall well-being.