Population Health Research Brief Series

The COVID-19 pandemic created severe economic challenges that increase risk of mental health problems.

This data slice uses data from the U.S. Census Household Pulse Survey to compare rates of anxiety and depressive symptoms between U.S. adults with versus without employment income loss since COVID-19 hit the U.S. in March 2020. Prevalence rates for both anxiety and depressive symptoms were higher among adults who experienced employment income loss since March 2020 compared to those who did not experience employment income loss.

While providing economic support to those who have lost income in the past year is critical, it is equally essential to provide resources to alleviate the mental health challenges that have come with COVID-19.