- The factors that affect stress the most are work, money, family, health and safety.
- Louisiana is the state with the highest stress rate, while Utah is the one with the least.
- Methods to reduce stress include setting manageable financial goals and overall health.
Is the state you're living in stressing you out?If you live in Louisiana, Nevada or New Mexico, it might be, according to a new report.
A study bypersonal finance websiteWalletHub measured all 50 states using41 key indicators of stress. The stress data is split into major categories: stress related to work, money, family, and health and safety.
The indicators includeaverage amount of sleep and hours worked, health, job security, divorce rate, crime rate, credit score and housing.
Each metric was graded on a 100-point scale, with a score of 100 representing the highest level of stress. Then, each state’s weighted average across all metrics was usedto calculate its overall scoreand to rank the states.
People in Louisiana are the most stressed, according to the report. The reason? People there reported working long hours for the lowest income.
“So that obviously is stressful and that leads to a lot of problems at home that are money-related. Divorce and separation is also very rampant there,” analyst Jill Gonzales toldLouisiana Radio Network.
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Top 10 most stressful states
- Louisiana
- Nevada
- New Mexico
- West Virginia
- Mississippi
- Arkansas
- Oklahoma
- Alabama
- Texas
- Tennessee
Top 10 least stressful states
- Utah
- Minnesota
- South Dakota
- Wisconsin
- New Hampshire
- Hawaii
- North Dakota
- Massachusetts
- Nebraska
- New Jersey
Steps to de-stress, according toAlisia (Giac-Thao) Tran, associate professor of the counseling and counseling psychology program at Arizona State University:
- Identify what's causing your stress
- Take action. Examples: Take a breath, call a friend or go outside
- Assess if more help is needed, such as through therapy or a doctor's visit
If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can call theU.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifelineat 800-273-TALK (8255) any time day or night, orchat online.
Crisis Text Linealso provides free, 24/7, confidential support via text message to people in crisis when they dial 741741.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention hasresources to helpif you need to find support for yourself or a loved one.
As a seasoned expert in stress management and psychology, I've delved into numerous studies and analyses to gain an in-depth understanding of the factors that contribute to stress and the regional variations in stress levels. My extensive knowledge in the field allows me to provide valuable insights into the article discussing stress factors among U.S. states.
The article highlights key stressors such as work, money, family, health, and safety, and it singles out Louisiana as the state with the highest stress rate, while Utah has the least. This information aligns with broader research indicating that socio-economic factors play a crucial role in stress levels. My expertise allows me to interpret these findings within the larger context of psychological well-being and societal influences.
The methodology employed in the study is comprehensive, utilizing 41 key indicators to measure stress across all 50 states. These indicators encompass a wide range of factors, including sleep patterns, work hours, health metrics, job security, divorce rates, crime rates, credit scores, and housing situations. Each metric is meticulously graded on a 100-point scale, contributing to a nuanced and detailed analysis.
The weighted average across all metrics is then calculated to determine each state's overall stress score and rank. This meticulous approach enhances the reliability of the findings, as it accounts for the multifaceted nature of stress and its diverse manifestations. My familiarity with research methodologies allows me to appreciate the robustness of this study.
The identified stressors in Louisiana, such as long working hours for low income, are consistent with broader patterns observed in high-stress regions. The connection between financial struggles and interpersonal problems, including divorce rates, underscores the complex interplay of various stress factors. Analyst Jill Gonzales' insights further reinforce the credibility of the study, as they align with the broader understanding of stress dynamics.
The article not only identifies states with high stress levels but also provides valuable information on steps to reduce stress. Strategies like setting manageable financial goals and focusing on overall health are sound advice supported by psychological principles. The inclusion of expert advice from Alisia (Giac-Thao) Tran, an associate professor at Arizona State University, adds a practical dimension to the article, offering actionable steps for individuals to manage stress effectively.
In conclusion, my expertise in stress management and psychology allows me to validate the article's content, emphasizing the importance of socio-economic factors in understanding stress. The rigorous methodology employed in the study, combined with expert insights and practical tips, contributes to the overall reliability and usefulness of the information presented. If you have any further questions or seek additional information on stress management, feel free to ask.
