A study published in JAMA Network Open finds a clear association between energy insecurity and higher rates of anxiety and depression in US households. The paper, coauthored by Assistant Professor Michelle Graff of Georgia Tech, used data from the US Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey and focused on people who reduced spending on other necessities to pay energy bills.
The researchers report that 43% of households experienced energy insecurity in the past year. Among those who cut back on necessities to cover energy costs, nearly 39% reported symptoms of anxiety and 32% reported symptoms of depression—more than twice the levels seen in respondents who did not make such tradeoffs. The study was not designed to prove causation, and the authors note it remains unclear whether other factors explain both energy hardship and poor mental health.
Researchers outline plausible pathways: inefficient housing can raise bills and cause unsafe indoor temperatures, which disrupt sleep and health; threats of utility shutoffs and having to sacrifice food or medicine can create chronic stress. Graff recommends that health care providers screen for energy insecurity as they do for food insecurity, and she says the work aims to build data for future policy and program improvements.
- Groups most affected include Black and Hispanic households
- Renters
- Families who rely on electronic medical devices
Graff is continuing related research at the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy, with state-level aid work alongside PhD student Ryan Anthony and a planned study of how energy insecurity affects eviction rates.
Difficult words
- energy insecurity — lack of reliable and affordable energy at home
- anxiety — strong worry or nervous feelings about future events
- depression — a long period of low mood and low energy
- tradeoff — choice that gives up one need for anothertradeoffs
- causation — the relationship where one thing directly causes another
- screen — to check people for a specific problem or need
- eviction — legal removal of people from their rented home
- chronic — happening over a long time and persistent
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How might energy insecurity affect a family's daily life and overall health? Give examples.
- What policies or programs could reduce energy insecurity in your community or state?
- Do you think health care providers should screen patients for energy insecurity like food insecurity? Why or why not?
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