Rising Costs of Gifts and Meals Stir Anxiety in Latino Households During the Holidays, New Survey Finds 

Rising Costs of Gifts and Meals Stir Anxiety in Latino Households During the Holidays, New Survey Finds 

As the holiday season draws near, a growing number of Latinos are reporting an increase in stress compared to previous years. With one in three Latinos acknowledging heightened anxiety, the season’s pressures seem to be intensifying for many. 

Latinos Are Feeling More Anxiety During the Holidays

A range of stressors has surfaced in the latest survey by the American Psychiatric Association (APA). Chief among them are financial concerns: 51 percent of Latinos expressed stress over the cost of gifts, and 45 percent worried about the expenses tied to festive meals. Beyond financial strain, many are also dealing with emotional challenges. Fifty percent reported stress from the grief of losing or missing loved ones, while 38 percent noted feelings of loneliness. 

In addition to these emotional hurdles, 37 percent of Latinos feel the strain of family dynamics, and 22 percent cited long work hours as another source of holiday-related stress. Despite the weight of political tension following the 2024 elections, only 24 percent of Latinos feared political discussions at family gatherings. Breaking it down by party lines, 30 percent of Democrats were concerned about political conversations at holiday dinners, while only 21 percent of Republicans and 17 percent of Independents shared similar worries. 

Alcohol consumption also looms large, with 23 percent of Latinos worried about overindulgence, while 25 percent feel anxious about being around others who drink excessively. 

The Survey Also Reports Joy 

These findings stem from the APA’s monthly Healthy Minds survey, conducted by Morning Consult on November 16 and 17, 2024, which polled 2,201 adults.  

Despite the stress, Latinos continue to find reasons for joy during the holiday season. Thirty-three percent look forward to spending time with family and friends, 24 percent are eager for good meals, and 9 percent enjoy the opportunity to travel or exchange gifts. 

The APA’s 2024 survey, marking the fourth consecutive year of tracking mental health during the holidays, reveals consistent trends in the primary sources of stress: covering the costs of gifts and meals.  

May these stresses decrease within the Latino community soon – and may the community help one another as they endure moments that may be difficult for some.  

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