According to a 2006 study authored by Richard Wener, a psychology professor at the Polytechnic Institute of New York University, short direct commutes contribute to a decrease in stress levels. Furthermore, his research showed that commuters who take the train to and from work have less stress than those who drive. This is mostly likely because the train requires less physical and mental effort than driving and it is also more predictable. Train mishaps such as delays, overcrowded cars, and equipment malfunctions cause commuters to be more irritable at work and at home. When these stressful situations occur, commuters sometimes start looking at their other options, such as driving.
Key Takeaways:
- Commuting disasters is increasing stress because it creates unpredictability in travel time.
- Drivers that commute, according to a study, have more stress.
- Stress from a long work commute can spill over into your professional and personal life.
"Crowded trains, frequent delays, extended commutes and forcing passengers to make an extra transfer, which would all happen if one Hudson River tube is closed, increases stress levels, making people more irritable and less able to cope with difficult situations."
