from journal PLOS One
Politics has become toxic. Nearly forty percent of Americans surveyed for a study at the University of Nebraska and University of California Merced says never-ending political campaigns, social media and twenty-four hour news channels are stressing them out. The study, published in the journal PLOS ONE, suggests we are making ourselves sick over politics, with one in five losing sleep, suffering fatigue, and damaged friendships. Nearly twelve percent of those surveyed reported politics had adversely affected their physical health. Many admitted they care too much about who wins and who loses. Co-author Kevin Smith says stress can have serious health effects, but if we first understand what is causing it, solutions can be developed.