From sleepless nights to financial worries, stress has become a daily reality for many Alabamians—and it shows in the data. A new 2025 WalletHub study confirms that Alabama ranks among the top 10 most stressed states in the U.S., placing 8th overall.

The study analyzed 40 key indicators of stress, including work hours, financial strain, family pressures, and health-related challenges. Alabama was one of six Southern states to appear in the top 10, underscoring the region’s ongoing struggle with mental health access, economic insecurity, and limited resources.

The report evaluated multiple stressors and revealed that residents of Alabama experience disproportionate levels of financial and health-related stress. Key findings include:

Key Stress Indicators for Alabama

• 3rd fewest average hours of sleep per night

• 2nd-fewest psychologists per capita

• 3rd lowest average credit scores in the U.S.

These factors contributed to the state’s high stress ranking, which reflects ongoing strain in daily life and long-term well-being.

Top 10 Most Stressed States in 2025

Source: WalletHub’s analysis of 40 stress-related metrics

Color Legend: 🟥 Very High | 🟧 High | 🟨 Moderate-High | 🟩 Moderate

Southern States Under Pressure

The Deep South remains a stress hotspot. Alabama joins Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Florida in the top 10, highlighting a regional trend shaped by long-standing challenges like limited access to mental health care, lower credit scores, and economic instability.

Solutions and Support: What’s Being Done

Despite the troubling statistics, Alabama is taking steps to reduce stress levels through statewide and community-based initiatives.

Statewide Crisis Support

The Alabama Crisis System of Care provides comprehensive mental health services, including:

• The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7

• Regional crisis centers for psychiatric evaluation and stabilization

• Mobile crisis teams for on-site intervention

These services aim to reduce emergency room visits and offer faster help to those in crisis.

Community and Campus Resources

Organizations and institutions across Alabama offer free or low-cost stress-reduction programs. Some examples include:

Healthy Habits for Everyday Stress

Alabamians can also manage stress through personal routines:

• Regular physical activity, like walking or biking

• Practicing relaxation techniques, including deep breathing and mindfulness

• Maintaining balanced sleep and nutrition

• Seeking out community support networks

About the Study

WalletHub’s 2025 report analyzed data from government and research sources, grouping indicators into four categories: work stress, money stress, family stress, and health & safety stress.

Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].