A new study, published in JAMA Network Open, links energy insecurity with higher rates of anxiety and depression in US households. The paper was coauthored by Assistant Professor Michelle Graff of Georgia Tech. Researchers analyzed data from the US Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey and focused on people who cut spending on other necessities to pay energy bills.
The study found that many households experienced energy insecurity, and that those who made tradeoffs reported much higher levels of mental health symptoms. Nearly 39% reported anxiety symptoms and 32% reported depression among those who cut back on necessities; these rates were more than twice the levels in people who did not need to make such tradeoffs.
Graff noted that affording housing does not always mean affording safe heating, cooling or power. The researchers describe ways energy problems can harm health, and they recommend screening for energy insecurity like food insecurity. Graff is continuing related research at the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy, including work with a PhD student on state aid and eviction studies.
Difficult words
- energy insecurity — when a household cannot afford heating or power
- anxiety — strong worried or nervous feelings
- depression — long-lasting sad mood and low energy
- household — people living together in one homehouseholds
- tradeoff — choice between two competing needs or optionstradeoffs
- screening — process of checking people for a problem
- eviction — legal removal of people from their home
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think clinics or schools should screen for energy insecurity like they do for food insecurity? Why or why not?
- What actions could local or state governments take to help households that cannot afford heating or electricity?
- How might having to cut spending on necessities affect a person’s or family’s daily life and mental health?
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