IT’S something many of us do without thinking, calling a friend to rant after a stressful day just to let out our frustration.
Venting often feels good, even necessary during hard times.
Does venting actually help regulate and improve your health? Or does it do more harm than good by dwelling on these negative emotions?
Verdict:
TRUE
For women, venting isn’t just about blowing off steam after a long day, it could actually support better health.
According to research, discussing feelings with a trusted, supportive network reduces stress hormones like cortisol while also providing psychological and physical advantages.
"Calling a friend and letting it out can be helpful. It helps us feel connected to our social support networks, which is a big determinant of life satisfaction and overall well-being," explained Dr. Millstein of Harvard Medical School.
That sense of connection is important as feelings of isolation and loneliness have been connected to increased stress, weakened immunity, and a greater likelihood of heart disease.
One of the most powerful methods for venting is the release of oxytocin, sometimes known as the "bonding hormone."
When women join encouraging interactions, such as a heart-to-heart chat or a reassuring hug, their oxytocin levels increase.
In fact, research proves oxytocin directly lowers cortisol, stabilises brain regions that control emotion, and also protects cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure and heart strain.
Scientists refer to this phenomena as "social buffering." When a woman feels supported, her body physically moves away from high-alert state.
Over time, these little but significant improvements can lessen the risk of chronic stress-related illnesses like anxiety, depression, and heart disease.
However, venting isn't always a good activity if discussions become negative and focus on repeated complaints without resolution. This causes both sides to wind up feeling worse.
Constructive venting, however, encourages being heard and validated, and also, having time to reflect rather than dwell.
In the right situation, venting is more than a momentary relief. It is a powerful stress reliever, reminding us that sometimes the best medicine is simply talking it out.
References:
1. https://www.heart.org/en/news/
2. https://www.tandfonline.com/
4. https://www.amenclinics.com/
