The Hidden Mental Health Costs of Mirroring Someone Else’s Emotional State In today’s relational language, “matching someone’s energy” is often framed as empowerment. It can sound like confidence, self-respect, or standing your ground. But in practice—especially within close relationships, family systems, workplaces, and healing spaces—this approach can quietly erode emotional integrity, nervous system regulation, and mental well-being. At Holistic Mental Health Services , w