University of Phoenix Survey Finds More Than Two in Five (41 percent) of US Adults Say They are Most Concerned About Experiencing Increased Anxiety as a Result of the Coronavirus Pandemic

Although Americans report feelings of unease and anxiety, they also express feelings of gratitude, hope, and resilience

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Apr 14, 2020, 15:02 ET

PHOENIX, April 14, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- University of Phoenix today announced Harris Poll findings regarding U.S. adults' perceptions of the COVID-19 pandemic. The survey found more than 2 in 5 (41 percent) of Americans say they are most concerned about experiencing increased anxiety; more so than not being able to pay their bills (33 percent), reduced job salary/work hours (26 percent), or losing their job/not being able to get a new job (22 percent). Respondents expressed other mental health concerns as well. More than 2 in 3 Americans (68 percent) say they feel like everything is out of their control right now and more than half (56 percent) say they are balancing more now than ever before during this pandemic.

Although Americans report feelings of being overwhelmed and anxious, they also express feelings of gratitude and hope with 65 percent saying they are thankful for their health, family and friends. Americans are also looking toward the future when social distancing guidelines are lifted. The survey found nearly 2 in 5 (38 percent) are optimistic that the country will come out of this pandemic stronger than ever and 30 percent are making plans for a post-pandemic future. Still, many Americans are worried about the long- term mental health repercussions of being quarantined. The vast majority of Americans (84 percent) say that if the social distancing continues longer than they expect, it will have an impact on their mental health.

"While many people are currently feeling anxiety, there can be several ways to maintain good mental health by making small behavior changes," said Dr. Dean Aslinia, counseling department chair at University of Phoenix. "Instead of texting or emailing, make a phone call or use video chat to build a more meaningful connection. Build activity in your day by trying something new or setting a goal for yourself to start a new project. Remember, it is okay to seek professional help, if your negative feelings persist. Many mental health practitioners are offering virtual counseling sessions so you can have someone to talk to without leaving the house."

WHAT ARE RESPONDENTS DOING TO IMPROVE THEIR MENTAL HEALTH?
If there is a silver lining in social distancing, the survey suggests that many people are engaging in activities to maintain connections and improve their mental health.

Checked in with a loved one – 60 percent
Increased my exercise – 35 percent
Limited my news consumption – 30 percent
Performed acts of kindness for others – 29 percent

"It is encouraging to see some people take this time to practice habits that will improve their mental health," said Dr. Aslinia. "Feelings of anxiety are not solely due to isolation or social distancing. The everyday choices we make including technology overuse, impersonal interactions and engaging with people that are unhealthy for us, all lead to anxiety. If something good can come from this pandemic, we can hopefully recognize the need for intentional behaviors that maintain and improve our mental health."

To view an infographic of the data, click here. To learn more about University of Phoenix's response to COVID-19 and resources available, please visit phoenix.edu.

Survey Methodology
This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of University of Phoenix from March 30-31, 2020 among 1,055 U.S. adults aged 18 and older. This online survey is not based on a probability sample and, therefore, no estimate of theoretical sampling error can be calculated. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables and subgroup sample sizes, please contact [email protected].

About University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix is continually innovating to help working adults enhance their careers in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant courses and interactive learning help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. We serve a diverse student population, offering degree programs at select locations across the U.S. as well as online throughout the world. For more information, visit phoenix.edu.

SOURCE University of Phoenix