It is quite bizarre to be told by multiple commenters now that I really have entered a permanent state of anxiety and that I've just overestimated myself. Are you that confident that reading news inspires such a state in everyone?

Personally I can't remember the last time I experienced anxiety reading the news - and I read an hour or two's worth daily. So I have trouble relating to those who do, but I don't insist that they must be "underestimating" themselves.

You spend up to 60 hours per month reading the news? Almost 4 days worth of waking hours dedicated to it?

Is being “well informed” on current affairs worth that much?

I enjoy reading.

People have to spend their time somehow - reading news seems likely more valuable than watching sports, arguing on the internet, gambling, watching cat videos, or playing cell phone games. All those are common time sinks for people.

Seems odd to question the value of reading news, considering.