#United States #mental health #Scottsdale #LifeStance Health #stressflation

Understanding the Concept of 'Stressflation'

In recent times, the term "stressflation" has emerged to describe the growing discomfort among Americans regarding economic pressures that significantly impact their mental health. According to a survey conducted by LifeStance Health, a staggering 83% of Americans acknowledge that the current economic environment is causing heightened levels of stress. This phenomenon is primarily fueled by inflation, job insecurities, and escalating living expenses, particularly impacting the younger demographic.

Key Findings of the LifeStance Health Survey

1. High Financial Stress Among All Ages

The survey highlights that economic distress is not confined to age or demographics; rather, it spans across all age groups, with Millennials and Generation Z feeling the strain more acutely than their older counterparts. Around 67% of Millennials and 58% of Gen Z participants reported significant stress due to the current economic climate. In comparison, only 41% of Baby Boomers and 49% of Generation X felt the same intensity of stress, illustrating a stark generational divide in financial concerns.

2. Mental Health Care vs. Physical Health Care

Despite the overwhelming acknowledgment of mental health’s importance—with 93% believing it to be as essential as physical health—there exists a troubling trend where financial constraints are preventing individuals from seeking necessary care. The survey indicated that 60% of respondents have been dissuaded from pursuing mental health treatment due to expenses, marking a two-percentage point increase from the previous year. Notably, 41% of those experiencing intense financial stress cited costs as a barrier to seeking help, compared to just 17% of respondents with similar stress levels who do not face such financial barriers.

3. Barriers to Therapy

Financial constraints are undeniably a defining factor deterring individuals from entering therapy; nearly half of the respondents (47%) admitted to skipping therapy sessions due to costs. Inflation has significantly impacted everyday expenses like groceries, housing, and transportation, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to allocate funds towards mental health care. The survey found 60% of participants feeling the burden of rising grocery prices, 43% affected by transportation costs, and 42% struggling with housing expenses, all contributing to the challenge of accessing therapy.

4. Returning to Therapy Amidst Challenges

Interestingly, while cost remains a persistent obstacle, the survey reveals that many individuals are returning to therapy more quickly than in the past. The data shows a notable improvement as 33% of respondents resumed therapy within a week of taking a break for financial reasons—a significant jump from 8% in 2024. Furthermore, only 56% of respondents went without therapy for over a month in 2025, a drop from 71% seen the previous year. This indicates a cultural shift toward prioritizing mental health, despite the financial burdens many face.

Conclusion

In summary, the findings of the LifeStance Health survey portray a nation grappling with the pressures of 'stressflation.' As financial distress impacts mental health accessibility, it remains crucial for systems to evolve, ensuring that mental health services become more affordable and accessible. Dr. Rachel Dalthorp, Executive Medical Director at LifeStance Health, emphasizes that "economic challenges—ranging from increased grocery bills to housing costs—are complicating access to care." In this rapidly changing landscape, addressing these barriers is vital for the well-being of many Americans, particularly the younger generations who champion mental health awareness and prioritization in daily life.

About LifeStance Health

Founded in 2017, LifeStance Health operates primarily in mental healthcare provision across various states, focusing on improving access to affordable and personalized mental health services. With an extensive network of professionals, LifeStance is committed to supporting individuals in leading healthier lives influenced by mental wellness.