nearly two-thirds of the German population frequently experiences stress, marking a continuous upward trajectory since 2013.. The ‘Stress Report 2025,’ released this week, highlights a society increasingly burdened by pressure, prompting questions about the efficacy of current support systems and the role of political discourse.
While acknowledging that “stress to a certain degree is part of life” TK CEO Jens Baas emphasized the severe health implications of chronic stress, citing increased risks of cardiovascular problems, back pain and depression. The survey data demonstrates a clear correlation between stress and heightened physical and mental health complaints, including muscle tension, exhaustion and sleep disturbances.
The report identifies an alarming hierarchy of stressors. Pressure exerted upon oneself tops the list, cited by 61% of respondents, followed closely by demands related to education and professional pursuits (58%). Strikingly, political and societal concerns rank as the third most significant contributor to stress (53%), directly attributed to ongoing conflicts and international crises.
Further analysis indicates that a majority (62%) of stressed individuals feel the impact as “severe” or “very severe”. This pervasive anxiety is compounded by fears of political polarization (59%), threats to internal security through crime, terrorism and extremism (52%), potential loss of prosperity (47%) and the looming consequences of climate change (44%).
The findings spark a critical debate regarding the influence of media consumption and the broader political climate on national well-being. “The world feels to be in a constant crisis mode” Baas commented, underscoring the relentless barrage of negative news that contributes to heightened anxieties. This observation implicitly critiques a media landscape perceived as exacerbating societal pressures rather than offering solutions.
The study, conducted by Forsa in May 2025 and surveying 1,407 German adults, suggests a need for proactive governmental and societal interventions. While individual coping strategies are important, the widespread nature of the problem demands a broader response that addresses the underlying political and economic anxieties fueling this growing public health concern. The report’s conclusion – that strategies for long-term coping with ongoing crises are essential – calls for a renewed focus on fostering resilience and mitigating the social and political factors contributing to widespread stress.