Stress isn't just personal, it's social. Your team literally feels your tension, and your physiology shapes their performance.
Darryl Blake
Jun 12, 2024
Stress Contagion - how your stress drives your team's anxiety
Executives rarely realise that stress spreads through teams via mirror neurons and limbic resonance. Simply put, the nervous system of a leader influences the nervous systems of those around them. When you’re tense, anxious, or reactive, your team often mirrors that state unconsciously — even if you try to hide it.
The Science Behind Stress Contagion
Mirror neurons: Brain cells that fire both when you act and when you observe someone else act.
Limbic synchrony: Emotional states align across individuals, creating shared stress or calm.
Physiological mirroring: Heart rate, breathing, and cortisol can synchronise in groups.
How leaders can shield their teams
Self-regulation first – Calm your nervous system with breathwork or short mindfulness before critical meetings.
Visible pauses – Taking a brief pause before responding signals composure and gives your team permission to do the same.
Model recovery behaviours – Regular walks, strategic breaks, and visible stress management reinforce healthy norms.