Many medical experts say that person under stress can easily «pass on’ their tension and anxiety to people around them— especially to those people who tend to get caught up in the problems of others. Although being sensitive to another person’s anxiety and tension is not a weakness, it can make us vulnerable to unnecessary stress which could then lead to serious health problems.
Since we all have our own fair share of stress to cope with every day. it is important that we know how to avoid «catching» stress from other people. Here are several expert tips on how to protect yourself from «contagious stress»:
1) While it may seem harsh or unfeeling, you should, if at all possible, try to avoid people who seem to exude tension and anxiety. For example, if you seem to be coming into contact with such a person at the same time and place —at lunch or on the bus— rearrange your schedule so you are not constantly meeting him or her. After all, avoiding potentially unhealthy situations is an important part of proper health maintenance.
2) If you can’t avoid «stress carriers», distract yourself so that you don’t get caught up in their problems. Try to remind yourself that their problems are not yours. It’s o.k. to sympathize, and even offer a few words of encouragement as long as you don’t allow yourself to be swept away in their misery.
Try to distract yourself by thinking of peaceful images when you are in the presence of a stressed-out person. Visualize the most relaxing setting you can imagine—a sunny beach or a picnic in a lush, green meadow. This type of distraction should serve as a protective barrier against intrusive tension and anxiety.
3) A sense of humor may be one of your best defenses against contagious stress. Try to make yourself laugh as soon as possible after an encounter with a stressful person. Seek out a friend who can always make you laugh, or go see a funny movie. Research has proven that laughter can be a potent antidote to stress.
4) Another proven method of reducing stress is exercise. If possible, do some exercise—walking or running—after dealing with a stressful person. Exercise will be helpful, even if you simply walk around the block once or twice at lunchtime.
5) Keep your personal and professional environment as «stress-resistant» as possible with flowers, plants, posters, or pictures of relaxing scenes. In other words, try to surround yourself with proven «stress-busters».
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