We all know kissing comes with some classic risks — you might catch a cold, mono, or even the dreaded herpes. But hold on to your lip balm, because new research suggests kissing might also be passing along anxiety and depression. Yep, those warm, mushy smooches could be swapping more than just feelings — it turns out they might be trading some mental health vibes too, thanks to bacteria.
Here’s the scoop: Scientists followed 268 newlywed couples where one partner was dealing with depression, anxiety, or sleep troubles, and the other was (mostly) in the clear. Both partners filled out mental health surveys and gave saliva samples to check stress hormones (hello, cortisol!) and the bacteria in their mouths.
Fast forward six months — and surprise, surprise — the “healthy” partners started showing signs of anxiety, depression, and sleep issues. Not as intense as their spouses, but definitely noticeable. Plus, their oral bacteria began to look eerily similar to their partners’. It’s like their mouths were starting to sync up playlists or something.
What’s really wild is the role of cortisol — that stress hormone that goes haywire during anxiety and depression. High cortisol levels can mess with your mouth’s bacteria balance, and since kissing is basically a bacteria exchange party, those stressed-out microbes can hitch a ride to your brain (well, kinda).
Also, ladies, heads up: the study found that women’s mental health took a bigger hit after six months of smooching stressed partners. So apparently, anxiety and depression spread easier with a little lip action — especially for the gals.
Now, before you swear off kissing forever (please don’t), keep in mind this study doesn’t say kissing causes depression or anxiety. It’s more like a reminder that our mental health is pretty much intertwined with the people we get close to — literally. Plus, the research didn’t control for things like diet, exercise, or pre-existing health conditions, so there’s still a lot we don’t know.
So what’s the takeaway? Kissing is great, but maybe keep an eye on your partner’s vibes — and their stress levels — before puckering up. Or at least brush your teeth extra well afterward.
