US stress levels highest in 10 years following Donald Trump's election victory

Poll shows fastest rise in stress levels since survey began

72 per cent of Democrats and 26 per cent of Republicans thought the outcome of the 2016 presidential election was a significant source of stress (Getty)

US stress levels are at their highest in at least a decade following the election of Donald Trump, an American Psychological Association survey has found.

The majority of Americans (57 per cent) said they thought the current political climate in the US was a significant source of stress.

A previous survey, conducted in August during the most contentious campaign in recent US history, found 52 per cent were anxious about the presidential election.

The results of the latest poll, given to 1,019 people in January, showed the fastest rise in stress levels since the APA's Stress in America survey began in 2007.

"The stress we're seeing around political issues is deeply concerning, because it's hard for Americans to get away from it," Katherine C Nordal, APA's executive director for professional practice, said.

"We're surrounded by conversations, news and social media that constantly remind us of the issues that are stressing us the most."

The APA report also found 72 per cent of Democrats thought the outcome of the 2016 presidential election was a significant source of stress, while 26 per cent of Republicans thought the same.

However, 59 per cent of Republicans said the future of the nation was a significant source of stress, along with 76 per cent of Democrats.

Ms Nordal said the transition of power and the speed of change can cause uncertainty and feelings of stress.

She advised: "If the 24-hour news cycle is causing you stress, limit your media consumption.

"Read enough to stay informed but then plan activities that give you a regular break from the issues and the stress they might cause."