Complaining is one form of coping with stress. It releases emotional pressure, which has a relaxing effect on us. But many times, complaining can turn into a dysfunctional tactic, which is ineffective for us and burdensome for those around us. Read why you shouldn't complain too much and short tips on how to improve your way of dealing with stress.
Is complaining healthy and meaningful? To some extent, probably yes the line between the benefits and harms of this behavior is thin. The reasons why you shouldn't complain too much are reinforced by, among other things, the fact that complaining is bad for an individual's health. During excessive complaining, the body starts to secrete the stress hormone cortisol. The latter has the function of preparing us for flight or fight, which in many cases is functional, but many times it turns out to be a burden for no reason. Our blood sugar level and pressure rise, which in the long term can lead to Health issues.
Another downside to excessive complaining is that it can be in unlimited doses negatively affects our relationships. Most people are capable of empathic empathy to a certain extent and function according to the principle of neural mirroring. When we complain to a friend, she begins to experience similar negative emotions as we do. In excessive amounts, our complaining also triggers bad feelings in other people, as a result of which they begin to distance themselves, and our relationships with them slowly break down.
And how can we help each other? When you too feel the need to release tension through complaining, you have a choice. You can indulge in the easy way, or you can take it constructive way of solving problems. Focus on the things, people and events you are in life for grateful. Indeed, research has shown that people who daily remind themselves of the positive aspects of their lives have lower cortisol levels and fewer problems with anxiety and depression.
But if you find that a problem has deep roots that need active engagement, instead of aimlessly complaining, you can focus your energy on the purposeful search for concrete solutions. Clarify your problem and goals, which will help you feel better. Instead of negative nagging, try to solve the problem approach positively and, if possible, find the good side of the problem.
Be specific and concrete – both in researching the source of your bad mood and in planning the steps to help you get out of the rut. This way of dealing with problems leads to proven to feel better and reduces the feeling of uncontrollability of the situation.
