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Anxiety Statistics & Trends in the U.S.

(2026)

Important: This page compiles statistics from federal health agencies and peer-reviewed research. Statistics reflect specific survey methodologies and time periods. This information is educational only and does not constitute medical advice. Sources are linked where available for verification.

U.S. Prevalence: Key Statistics

The following statistics come from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), based on the National Comorbidity Survey Replication (NCS-R).

Adults (18+)

  • 19.1% of U.S. adults had any anxiety disorder in the past year
  • 31.1% of U.S. adults experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives
  • Past-year prevalence: 23.4% for women vs. 14.3% for men

Adolescents (13-18)

  • 31.9% of adolescents had any anxiety disorder
  • 8.3% experienced severe impairment
  • Prevalence: 38.0% for females vs. 26.1% for males

Source: NIMH - Any Anxiety Disorder

Prevalence by Disorder Type

Anxiety disorders include several distinct conditions. Lifetime prevalence estimates from NIMH:

  • Specific phobia: 12.5% lifetime prevalence (source)
  • Social anxiety disorder: 12.1% lifetime prevalence (source)
  • Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): 5.7% lifetime; 2.7% past-year (source)
  • Panic disorder: 4.7% lifetime prevalence
  • Agoraphobia: 2.5% lifetime prevalence

COVID-19 Pandemic Impact

A systematic review published in The Lancet (October 2021) estimated the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on anxiety disorders.

  • An estimated 76 million additional cases of anxiety disorders globally in 2020
  • This represented a 25.6% increase from pre-pandemic levels
  • Women and younger people were most affected

Source: The Lancet - COVID-19 Mental Disorders Collaborators (2021)

Treatment Gap

Despite effective treatments being available, many people with anxiety disorders do not receive care.

  • Only 36.9% of people with any anxiety disorder receive treatment
  • For generalized anxiety disorder specifically: 43.2% receive treatment

Source: NIMH, ADAA

Texas-Specific Data

Texas faces significant challenges in mental health provider availability.

  • More than 80% of Texas counties are designated as Mental Health Professional Shortage Areas
  • 23% of Texas psychiatrists were over age 65 in 2023
  • An estimated 42% of the Texas psychiatrist workforce will be over 65 within ten years
  • In 2023: 170 of 254 Texas counties had no licensed psychiatrists

Source: Texas Tribune (July 2024), Texas Department of State Health Services

Understanding These Statistics

Data Sources and Limitations

The prevalence statistics on this page primarily come from:

  • National Comorbidity Survey Replication (NCS-R) — A nationally representative survey using diagnostic interviews. This remains the primary source for NIMH prevalence estimates.
  • Peer-reviewed research — Studies published in journals like The Lancet with transparent methodology.
  • State agency reports — Data from Texas DSHS and related sources.

Important Considerations

  • Prevalence estimates can vary based on survey methodology, diagnostic criteria, and sample populations
  • Self-reported data may differ from clinical assessments
  • Increases in reported anxiety may reflect actual increases, greater awareness, reduced stigma, or improved screening — often a combination
  • The NCS-R data, while authoritative, was collected years ago; more recent trends may differ

Sources

All statistics on this page are drawn from the following sources. Links are provided for verification:

Related resources

Understanding Anxiety

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Virtual Counseling for Anxiety

How online therapy can help with anxiety.

Burnout Statistics & Trends

Data on occupational burnout in the U.S.

Find a Licensed Therapist

Connect with a mental health professional.

Disclaimer: This page provides educational information compiled from publicly available sources. It is not intended as medical advice, clinical assessment, or a substitute for professional consultation.

If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety that interfere with your daily life, please consider consulting with a licensed mental health professional. Statistics and source links were verified at the time of publication but may change as new research becomes available.