Published May 2026 | Source: American Psychiatric Association; Talker Research
Anxious Times
The News Section of StopAnxiety.org
Key Finding: Two-thirds of Americans report anxiety about world events in 2026 — up 4% from 2024 — yet only half of those who need help are receiving any form of treatment.
Anxiety in the United States has risen consistently every year since 2022 — and 2026 is no different.
According to the American Psychiatric Association’s latest annual mental health poll, two-thirds of Americans report feeling anxious about current world events, up four percentage points from 2024. A separate 2026 survey of 2,000 Americans found that one in three people said their entire life feels out of control, with financial stress, job insecurity, and global uncertainty cited as the main drivers.
The numbers are especially stark for younger generations. Among Gen Z, 52% reported experiencing an existential crisis — more than double the rate seen in Baby Boomers.
The treatment gap is growing
Despite rising anxiety rates, access to professional care isn’t keeping pace. Therapist waitlists are months long, and costs remain a significant barrier. Nationally, roughly 1 in 5 adults meets criteria for an anxiety disorder in any given year — yet only about half receive any form of treatment.
What this means for you
If you’re feeling more anxious than usual, you are not alone — and the research suggests that macro-level stressors like financial pressure and global uncertainty are now a structural part of American life rather than temporary disruptions. This makes self-directed natural tools — breathwork, exercise, sleep hygiene, nervous system regulation — more important than ever as accessible, low-cost first steps.
Sources: American Psychiatric Association Annual Mental Health Poll 2025; Talker Research, March 2026
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