Stress contagion: The silent office epidemic

Stress contagion, or the spread of stress from one person to another, can affect productivity and team dynamics

- Divya Naik

Stress contagion' is a silent epidemic in the modern office.

Defined as the spread of stress from one individual to another through emotional or physiological cues, this phenomenon often goes unnoticed. It impacts productivity, team dynamics and individual wellbeing. It is not just an interpersonal issue but a systemic problem.

Mental health professionals offer insights into the causes, effects and steps that can be taken to mitigate it.

Stress contagion begins subtly in a workplace. Dr Amit Malik, founder-chief executive officer, Amaha Health, Mumbai, explains that a stressed manager, an impending deadline or a tense workplace interaction can serve as the spark that ignites the cycle. He compares it to a wildfire-what starts as an isolated issue can spread to an entire team, draining focus and productivity.

Mumbaibased clinical psychologist Samriti Makkar Midha says stress spreads unconsciously through behaviours, emotions and physiological cues.

Team members may mimic the frustration, irritation or annoyance of a stressed colleague without even realising it. Leaders under pressure may inadvertently amplify this effect by using harsh tones setting unattainable goals or failing to recognise team efforts.

Asif Upadhye, director of employee engagement firm Never Grow Up, says: "Recognising stress contagion as a shared challenge rather than a personal shortcoming helps teams confront it. This ensures stressful moments don't overshadow the culture of support that should hold us together."

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