Do you think the holidays adds an extra layer of stress an tension? It just seems that people are more edgy right now.
I'm sure the anxiety levels of America as a whole is on the rise since about 2001, due to the economic crisis amongst other things. I think there is some research to prove this. At any rate, yes I do believe that in the long term, anxiety is on the rise, and so it does during holiday times as well.
I have noticed an increase in some people. Talking to them, I can blame it somewhat on the economy. People are without jobs, or taking pay cuts, or keeping jobs but losing benefits. It's very sad.