When groups act in unison, individuals often lose their sense of individuality, succumbing to collective emotions, like fear or anxiety. In times of crisis or widespread uncertainty, such as during economic downturns or public health emergencies, anxiety can spread quickly among groups, intensifying mental health challenges. Evidence shows that collective fear can escalate personal anxiety, highlighting the importance of critical thinking and self-awareness in managing mental well-being during turbulent times.
Le Bon, G. (1896). The crowd: A study of the popular mind. T. Fisher Unwin.