Nearly two-thirds of young American adults are considering relocating abroad, driven by rising national stress and societal challenges, according to a recent survey by the American Psychological Association.
As the United States faces increasing societal pressures, nearly two-thirds of young American adults have contemplated moving abroad. This trend reflects a deep unease with the current state of the nation. Data from the American Psychological Association’s 2025 Stress in America survey reveals that 63% of adults aged 18 to 34 and 53% of parents have seriously considered leaving the United States due to various national challenges.
The survey, conducted from August 4 to 24, 2025, involved over 3,000 participants and highlights a nation grappling with heightened anxiety about its future. Approximately 75% of respondents reported feeling increased stress regarding the country’s trajectory compared to previous years. Political tensions remain a significant stressor, affecting 76% of adults, a figure that has remained consistent since before the 2024 election. This indicates that the concerns of many Americans extend beyond typical partisan politics.
When asked to describe the current American identity, respondents frequently used terms such as “freedom” (41%), “corruption” (38%), “opportunity” (37%), and “division” (36%). The impact of societal division is felt on a personal level, with 62% of respondents acknowledging it as a significant source of stress. Those who feel stressed by division report much higher rates of isolation, feeling left out, and lacking companionship compared to those less affected.
Loneliness is a pervasive issue, impacting half of American adults. Over 54% reported feelings of isolation, while 50% stated they often feel left out, and another 50% indicated they lack companionship at times. The need for emotional support is on the rise; 69% of adults admitted to requiring more support in the past year than they received, an increase from 65% the previous year. Among those burdened by division-related stress, 75% felt their emotional needs were unmet.
The correlation between loneliness and chronic health problems is striking. Eighty percent of those experiencing severe loneliness also live with chronic illnesses such as depression, anxiety, or chronic pain, compared to lower percentages among those who report less loneliness. Additionally, stress stemming from political and societal division manifests physically, with 83% of those stressed by division reporting symptoms like anxiety, fatigue, or headaches in the past month, compared to 66% among those less affected.
This pressure seeps into daily life, leading to increased impatience, arguments with family, cancellations of social plans, and difficulties in making future plans. Despite feelings of division and struggle, Americans hold mixed views about progress. Two-thirds believe they have more opportunities than previous generations, yet nearly as many feel their generation has faced sacrifices not previously experienced.
Technological anxiety adds another layer to these worries, particularly concerning artificial intelligence. Currently, 57% of adults cite AI as a source of stress, a significant rise from 49% in 2024. Students are particularly affected, with 78% reporting AI-related stress, nearly double from the previous year. Young adults and parents across age groups also report growing anxiety related to AI developments. Misinformation is another increasing source of stress, cited by 69% of adults, up from 62%.
Other significant sources of worry remain stable, including the economy (75%), financial issues (66%), U.S. politics, housing affordability, and mass shootings (each at 65%). Yet, amidst this turmoil, most Americans feel they retain some control over their personal lives. Seventy-seven percent are confident they can influence their futures, and 74% believe their dreams remain achievable. An even higher 84% think they can create a fulfilling life, albeit perhaps differently than previous generations.
However, 85% identify barriers obstructing their goals, and 26% are uncertain or pessimistic about achieving their aspirations. Those who doubt their future prospects experience intense mental health strains, with 89% reporting stress linked to these concerns.
Meaning and purpose primarily stem from relationships, with 92% of respondents identifying connections as central to life satisfaction. Family is paramount for 77%, followed by friendships, romantic partnerships, and pets. Health and well-being also rank highly at 59%. Conversely, while 69% of workers find their jobs stressful—the highest level since the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic—only 46% say their work adds meaning to their lives, highlighting a growing dissonance between stress and fulfillment.
Looking ahead, financial security is the top personal goal for 64% of respondents, followed by maintaining or improving health (60%) and spending quality time with loved ones (53%). Despite anxieties about the future of America, 65% of adults feel a personal responsibility to help shape the nation’s path, a sentiment that is even stronger among parents. Overall, 73% believe they can contribute to steering the country toward a better future.
The survey paints a picture of Americans navigating multiple crises—political division, social isolation, technological anxiety, and economic uncertainty—while yearning for connection and purpose. Although many young people and parents seriously contemplate leaving the country, a resilient majority still believes in their ability to build meaningful lives and effect positive change. The question remains how this optimism will endure amidst mounting pressures.
Source: Original article