The average American feels like their head is spinning 156 times a year due to stress, according to new research.
A survey of 2,000 adults found that these stress-related headaches occur roughly three times a week, and respondents reported experiencing brain fog just as frequently.
When asked about their current stress levels, the survey revealed that 41% of participants believe they are currently at their peak stress for the year so far.
Conducted by Talker Research for Traditional Medicinals, the findings showed that while 30% are hopeful their stress will decrease by the end of the year, a quarter (26%) believe there’s a chance it could increase.
Yet, 45% have never taken a mental health day or sick day from work solely due to stress.
In comparing their stress levels to previous years, 38% of respondents said 2024 has been more stressful than 2023, but less stressful than 2022 and the years prior.
So, what is it about this year that’s heightening their stress? Respondents pointed to their finances (35%), the economy (28%), and their physical health (25%) as major concerns.
Others are overwhelmed by the news cycle — especially the 2024 presidential election (20%) and global 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 the seasonal changes and the holidays.”
Respondents reported knowing they’re stressed when they have difficulty sleeping (42%), feel irritable (37%), fatigued (34%), have headaches (33%) or feel worried or paranoid (31%).
When examining how Americans cope with these high-stress moments, the results showed that a majority feel overwhelmed during these times (58%).
Forty-seven percent play music, while another 39% find comfort in watching their favourite TV shows or films.
Food also provides some comfort, with nearly a fifth of respondents sharing that they have a snack (17%) or drink a cup of tea (14%) when they need to relax.
Seven in 10 people agree that their overall mental health would improve if they were able to reduce their stress (71%), highlighting the need for self-care routines to play a crucial role in stress management.
However, incorporating self-care strategies into their daily lives is a challenge for one in seven Americans, with nearly half wishing for simple, time-efficient options (47%) rather than elaborate routines.
When considering a “de-stressing regimen,” respondents equally sought long-term wellness (23%) and quick stress relief (23%).
“We believe in integrating ancient herbal wisdom with modern scientific advancements for a holistic approach to wellness,” said Corson. “Just 37% of survey respondents think that trendy stress relief options are effective, while nearly half felt more confident in traditional methods like yoga, meditation, or a calming tea.”
Most Common Stress Symptoms:
- Trouble sleeping — 42%
- Irritability — 37%
- Fatigue — 34%
- Headaches — 33%
- Feeling worried/paranoid — 31%
- Inability to focus — 30%
- Restlessness — 29%
- Racing thoughts — 27%
- Brain fog/mental unclarity — 23%
- Panic attacks — 23%
What’s Stressing Americans Out?
- Personal finances — 35%
- The economy — 28%
- Physical health — 25%
- Family — 25%
- Mental health — 24%
- The 2024 presidential election — 20%
- The news/world issues — 19%
- Work — 16%
- An unexpected life event — 15%
- Romantic relationship — 13%
