There are several potential explanations for the mental health gap between liberals and conservatives:

Genetic/Biological Factors There may be genetic predispositions that simultaneously influence both political ideology and mental health/wellness. Biological factors could play a role in shaping both liberal/conservative leanings and susceptibility to certain mental health conditions. Ideological Effects on Mental Health Conservatism may help adherents make sense of and respond constructively to adverse situations, potentially enhancing mental resilience. Some strains of liberal ideology may exacerbate anxiety, depression, and unhealthy thinking patterns. The increased prevalence of certain liberal ideological frameworks post-2011 may have contributed to rising mental distress among liberals. Attraction to Ideology Based on Mental Health People experiencing mental health issues may be more attracted to liberal politics over conservatism for various reasons. This attraction could potentially exacerbate observed ideological gaps in mental health outcomes. Cultural and Social Factors Highly educated white liberals may experience dissociative pressures due to ideologies that villainize affluent whites. Liberals, especially white liberals, tend to be more anxious about interactions across demographic differences. This anxiety could lead to increased rumination, potentially heightening anxiety and depression among liberals. Diagnostic Patterns There may be perverse incentive structures in some liberal spaces that encourage seeking mental health diagnoses, even for mild symptoms. Non-liberal individuals may feel less pressure or eagerness to seek diagnoses, potentially affecting reported rates of mental illness. Conclusion While the exact causes of the mental health gap remain complex and multifaceted, research suggests that a combination of genetic/biological factors, ideological influences, attraction to ideology based on mental health status, and various cultural/social dynamics contribute to the observed differences.