BISMARCK, ND ( KXNET ) — Depression and anxiety are two conditions that can not only have a crippling effect on one’s mental health, but their family life, career, and even physical health as well. However, as a recent study suggests, these symptoms are far less common in North Dakota than in many areas of the country — at least, if a recent study is anything to go by.

In an effort to compare depression and anxiety rates across the United States, meditation music site MindWings analyzed both Household Pulse Survey data and information from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention relating to the number of US residents experiencing symptoms from 2020 to 2023. When these ups and downs were ranked against one another, it was determined that North Dakota has seen one of the lowest rates of anxiety and depression symptoms over recent years — a trait shared with other Midwestern territories like South Dakota and Minnesota.

From 2020 to 2023, approximately 29.6% of ND residents reported feelings of anxiety and depression — a statistic far below the national average of 34%. As opposed to these lower levels, states like Texas, West Virginia, and Louisiana report much higher rates of these symptoms than the national average.

“Mental health is incredibly important,” says MindWings founder Robert Vergin, “and the past few years have been particularly hard for people to look after their mental health. Factors such as the pandemic and its economic repercussions stand out as significant stressors. Tools such as the Household Pulse Survey provide clear snapshots into how America was feeling between 2020 and 2023, and investigating these tools further helps identify areas that may need more support to address what might have been causing high prevalences of low mental health. This was particularly pronounced in Louisiana, which recorded the highest percentage of people experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression between 2020 and 2023. There are many ways to improve one’s mental health, with options such as exercise, socializing, meditation, and mindfulness, to name just a few things people can try themselves. As part of a wider system of support and therapy, they can play a large part in mental health recovery and maintaining good mental health.”

If you are experiencing the symptoms of depression or anxiety, it is important to remember that you are never struggling with the condition alone. To learn more about mental health support in North Dakota, visit this page on the Department of Health and Human Services website.

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