
05/02/2025
Can the quiet presence of a stranger actually calm your nerves during a stressful moment? A recent study suggests it can - and the effect might be stronger than expected.
Researchers found that when women were exposed to fearful sounds, their physical signs of anxiety (measured through skin conductivity) decreased just by having another person silently present in the room. The presence alone (no conversation, no comforting gestures) was enough to act as a “safety signal” and reduce fear. Even more interesting, the person didn’t have to be familiar or similar in background. In fact, the anxiety-reducing effect was often stronger when the other person seemed less alike, possibly because participants assumed the other person wasn’t scared.
This offers a simple yet profound insight into human connection: we may feel safer knowing someone else is there. While the study focused on women, researchers are now exploring how this works across genders.
Could silent support be an underrated way to manage anxiety? It’s a gentle reminder that sometimes being present for someone matters more than we realize.
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Original Article: https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/key-to-being-calm-in-scary-situations