Nearly 9 out 10 Californians say America is in the midst of a mental health crisis, according to a sprawling new statewide survey of Golden State residents who also express lingering concerns over inflation, homelessness and housing.
In a rare show of unity, the poll found that huge majorities of Democrats , Independents and Republicans all believe the U.S. is experiencing a mental health crisis. It’s the same among racial and ethnic groups, with voters who identified as Black , White , Latino and Asian American agreeing. Although concerns over mental health and homelessness are high, nickel-and-dime financial matters still topped the survey’s list of issues of concern, with more than 28% of those surveyed naming jobs, the economy, and inflation as the number one issue facing the state. Homelessness came in second, at 14%, while housing costs and availability came in third, at 13%.
The PPIC survey was conducted in English and Spanish by the polling firm Ipsos, and included responses from 1,671 adult California residents from Aug. 25–Sept. 5.