#StressContagion

As global uncertainties and digital connectivity entwine daily life, new research has found that stress doesn’t only affect individuals—it can spread from person to person like a virus. Recent studies covered in The Washington Post highlight the science behind “stress contagion,” where exposure to the anxieties and pressures of others can trigger your own stress response. For Thai readers navigating pressures at work, school, or even scrolling through social media, understanding stress contagion and strategies to avoid catching it is both timely and essential (Washington Post, 2025).

In the vibrant cacophony of modern life, stress has become a near-constant companion for many. Amidst global disruptions, economic shifts, and the relentless scroll of social media, a new report suggests that stress isn’t just an individual burden—it’s contagious. Recognizing and managing this “stress contagion” is increasingly vital for maintaining mental wellness.

Understanding the contagious nature of stress offers insight into how emotions and behaviors spread within communities and social groups, much like physical viruses. The report from the Washington Post explores how stress can be transmitted from one individual to another, exacerbated by the omnipresence of social media where stressors are magnified. Natalia Duque-Wilckens, an assistant professor at North Carolina State University, emphasizes how humans, being inherently social beings, often transmit stress through the sharing of negative news.