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Election Stress and Substance Use: How Political Tension Drives Americans To Seek Relief

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As election season heats up, many Americans are feeling the stress of political tension. Our recent survey of over 1,000 people shows how this anxiety is leading to increased alcohol and drug use across party lines. We also explore public opinion on marijuana legalization and offer advice on managing substance use during these high-pressure times.

Key Takeaways

  • 50% of Americans have noticed an increase in alcohol consumption during election season, with 29% reporting increased marijuana use.
  • 64% of Democrats and 57% of Republicans are more likely to drink or use substances on election night.
  • 26% of Americans would increase their alcohol consumption if Donald Trump wins the election, compared to only 10% if Kamala Harris wins.
  • 71% of Americans support the legalization of marijuana for both recreational and medical use, with stronger support from Democrats (80%) than Republicans (46%).
  • 1 in 12 Americans have sought professional help to manage alcohol or substance use due to election-related stress.

Substance Use During Election Season

Increased alcohol consumption during election season
  • Overall, 50% of Americans have noticed an increase in alcohol consumption, 29% in marijuana, 17% in both, and 4% in other recreational drugs.
  • 64% of Democrats and 57% of Republicans are more likely to drink or use substances on election night.
  • Republicans (57%) are more likely than Democrats (41%) to report never using recreational drugs.
  • 1 in 4 Democrats and Republicans report frequently consuming alcohol, while 21% of Democrats and 17% of Republicans frequently use recreational drugs.
  • 1 in 9 Americans have experienced more social pressure to drink or use substances at political gatherings; 12% of Republicans and 11% of Democrats have experienced this.

Election Wins and Substance Use

Legalization of marijuana
  • 26% of Americans would increase their alcohol consumption if Donald Trump wins the election, compared to only 10% if Kamala Harris wins.
  • 71% of Americans support the legalization of marijuana for both recreational and medical use, with stronger support from Democrats (80%) than Republicans (46%).
  • Nearly 1 in 3 Americans experience extreme to moderate stress during election season. Democrats (39%) are more likely than Republicans (24%) to feel this way.
  • 21% of Republicans report not feeling stressed at all, compared to just 10% of Democrats.
  • Which political issues increase Americans’ stress the most?
    • Economic policies:
      • Overall: 61%
      • Democrats: 53%
      • Republicans: 72%
    • Healthcare:
      • Overall: 46%
      • Democrats: 56%
      • Republicans: 26%
    • Social justice:
      • Overall: 37%
      • Democrats: 51%
      • Republicans: 16%
    • Climate change
      • Overall: 32%
      • Democrats: 43%
      • Republicans: 14%
    • Immigration:
      • Overall: 31%
      • Democrats: 22%
      • Republicans: 49%
  • 1 in 12 Americans have sought professional help to manage their alcohol and substance use caused by election-related stress. Another 8% are considering it.
    • Republicans (11%) are more likely than Democrats (7%) to have sought professional help to manage their alcohol and substance use.

Supporting Healthy Coping During Election Season

At Boca Recovery Center, we understand the challenges that heightened stress during election season can bring. If you’re finding yourself turning to alcohol or substances to cope, it’s important to recognize abuse signs and take proactive steps to manage your stress in healthier ways. Simple strategies such as mindfulness, regular exercise, and setting boundaries with media consumption can help ease anxiety.

If you feel overwhelmed or notice a pattern of increased substance use, seeking professional help can also provide valuable support. Whether through counseling, support groups, or more structured treatment, resources are available to help you navigate difficult times. Managing stress responsibly can lead to healthier outcomes for your mental and physical well-being.

Methodology

For this campaign, we surveyed 1,005 Americans to explore the relationship between political tension and alcohol and substance use. Of the respondents, 49% were Democrats, 25% were Republicans, and 26% were Independents. The data was collected in September 2024.

About Boca Recovery Center

With facilities in Florida, Indiana, and New Jersey, Boca Recovery Center is well-equipped to provide a serene setting for addiction recovery. Our programs are tailored to meet each patient’s unique needs.

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Updated October 7, 2024
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