Political stress may affect health, researchers say
Political news stress can harm sleep, mood and appetite, researchers say. Limit exposure, spot warning signs and protect your mental well-being.
Researchers and mental health experts are warning that political news and conflict can affect both emotional and physical wellbeing. A CBC News report published Aug. 30 says studies in Canada and the U.S. have linked heavy exposure to political content with stress, poor sleep, anxiety, appetite loss and depression.
The story focuses on work at Western University’s Body Politics Lab, where researchers study how people react to politics in everyday life and on social media. One experiment measured students’ physical responses while they scrolled through TikTok, and participants often reported feeling worse after seeing political material.
Experts interviewed for the report said people should try to stay informed without becoming overwhelmed. They suggested limiting news and social media time, recognizing stress symptoms, and reaching out for support when political worry starts affecting daily life.