New survey reveals how chronic stress impacts U.S. adults

U.S. adults appear increasingly likely to view stress as an unavoidable part of daily life, according to the 2026 Stress in America™ survey by the American Psychological Association. Around three-quarters cited the cost of living (77%) – such as trying to keep up with rent or a mortgage or pay for other necessities like groceries and childcare – as a significant source of stress in their lives. 

In the annual survey, conducted online by The Harris Poll on behalf of APA, nearly three-quarters of U.S. adults also cited the future of the nation (74%) as a significant source of stress, offering a snapshot of the concerns weighing on the public ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. 

U.S. adults are not only experiencing persistent stress, they are also adjusting to it as a regular – and possibly unmanageable – part of their lives. Nearly three-quarters (72%) agreed that "stress is just something I have to live with," while similar numbers said bad news no longer shocks them the way it used to (72%) and that they have become accustomed to living with uncertainty (68%). That uncertainty may be reshaping how people think about their futures and where they seek support. 

Becoming accustomed to chronic stress is not the same as adapting to it in a healthy way. Chronic stress can take a serious toll on people's physical and psychological well-being. We should not accept that toll as an inevitable part of everyday life." 

Arthur C. Evans Jr., Ph.D., APA CEO

Nearly half (47%) of the respondents said that they have pulled back from at least one form of social engagement over the past year as a result of stress, uncertainty or feeling overwhelmed. Further, they may be looking for support in new ways: almost half of the surveyed AI users reported having engaged in conversations with AI as a friend (49%) or using it in a role comparable to a mental health professional (47%), while one in 10 said they relied on AI more than friends and family for advice. 

"When people feel overwhelmed, it is understandable that they may turn to AI for quick, accessible support," said Evans. "Accessibility, however, should not be confused with expertise. These tools may play a supportive role, but they cannot replace the clinical judgment of a psychologist or other qualified mental health professional or the human connection that comes from relationships with family and friends." 

The survey found that adults also reported scaling back expectations and future plans. Nearly three in five adults surveyed (59%) agreed that they felt like they were doing everything "right" but still falling behind, while more than half (56%) reported having to lower their expectations for what they could achieve in life. 

Together, the findings paint a picture of U.S. adults adapting to a prolonged period of uncertainty. Many report viewing stress as an unavoidable part of daily life, even as it affects their outlook, relationships and plans for the future. 

"We cannot always control the uncertainty in our lives, but we can strengthen the resources people need to navigate it," said Evans. "Healthy coping strategies, meaningful connections and accessible support can help protect people's health, relationships and ability to pursue their goals-even when stressful circumstances persist."