This publication in PsyPost is by Laura Staloch. Here is an excerpt:

A review of 2020 Household Pulse Survey data reveals that as an election nears, people in the United States report more depression and anxiety. The 2020 data is significant as rates of anxiety and depression in the weeks before the November presidential election can be compared with survey data taken in April 2020, the beginning of COVID-19 stay-at-home orders, when many Americans would have been concerned about their health and economic security.

Despite these worries, Americans were still more anxious and depressed in November 2020. Examining survey results in 2020 (a unique and challenging year) may help us understand the American elections’ psychological effect.

Elections in the United States, especially presidential elections, are well-publicized events that most Americans feel pressure to participate in. In the last few decades, politicians have had the funding to advertise non-stop. Any attempt at relaxing with a television show, YouTube video, or a scroll through Facebook will leave one inundated with political calls to action.

See the full story here.