Why do silent people suffer from stress more?

A new study has revealed an unexpected psychological paradox: people who appear calm and balanced often experience an internal storm.

The study showed that introverts and people with low emotional expression more often suppress their feelings. This leads to an accumulation of tension and increased levels of cortisol - the stress hormone. As part of the experiment, 300 participants were subjected to stressful situations: public speaking and solving complex problems under pressure. The "calm" subjects had cortisol levels 25% higher than more open people.

What's behind this reaction?

Psychologists identify three main reasons:

• Suppression of emotions: Quiet people avoid conflicts and try not to show their feelings, which increases internal tension.

• Social pressure: Society's expectations force them to "keep it together," even when emotional release is needed.

• Lack of support: The tendency to cope on their own prevents them from asking for help and sharing anxieties.

How to deal with hidden stress?

Experts recommend:

• Meditation and breathing practices that help reduce anxiety levels.

• Keeping an emotion journal as a way to express suppressed feelings.

• Communication with loved ones, even in small doses - an important resource of support.

These findings emphasize: behind a calm exterior may hide an intense internal struggle. Mental health care should begin with attention - even to those who seem not to complain.