The Anxious State

Stress, Polarization, and Elections in America

An exploration of how politics is undermining Americans’ mental health

The Anxious State: Stress, Polarization, and Elections in America examines the increasing political stress and emotional polarization in the United States. It examines the physiological toll of exposure to political conflict, the role of media and social media in heightening anxiety, and the strain on personal relationships caused by polarization. The authors argue that politics has moved from the periphery of American life into its most intimate spaces, creating a state of heightened vigilance and emotional exhaustion. The Anxious State:

• Examines the empirical health and stress impacts of politics in America today
• Reports original data from a year-long series of surveys examining political stress and polarization during the 2024 election
• Offers insights into the relationship between political stress and anxiety, generational cohort, and media consumption

An excellent text for both academic and general audiences, fits with curricula on political science, political behavior, political psychology, and political communications.