The Health Effects of Complaining

A Gift for Complaining

Do you know anyone that seems to complain about everything? Chances are you do. I actually worked with someone who complained about getting a raise because it meant the government would take more taxes! Some people just have a gift for finding the negative side of things.

How Does Chronic Complaining Impact Your Health

While it’s pretty obvious that chronic complaining can impact your mood and the happiness of others around you, it can also have a large impact on your brain function, and even take a toll on your body. When you’re surrounded by complaining you tend to start thinking more negative.

Additionally, your brain starts to rewire itself to make negative reactions more likely to occur in the future. Before you know you can get trapped into a negative mindset as time passes. While a little complaining is normal when it becomes chronic it’s a problem. It actually increases cortisol in your body, which in turn can raise your blood pressure (not great for your health!)

Is Your Brain Shrinking?

A Stamford University Study found that complaining causes the Hippocampus (the area of the brain responsible for problem solving and other cognitive functions) to shrink. Chronic complaining can also lead to high cortisol levels which can cause High blood pressure, High blood sugar and Lower Immunity. Leaving you with health issues like Obesity, diabetes and heart disease to complain about.

What Can You Do?

So what’s the best defense? Develop an attitude of gratitude Studies show that practicing gratitude can lower cortisol by 23%! Being grateful lowers blood pressure and cholesterol. It also helps decrease fatigue and depression! If you hang out with a chronic complainer, for your health, it might be time to look for a new friend.

How does chronic complaining effect you? Leave a comment below.

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