Does Venting Your Feelings Actually Help?

While letting your negative emotions out may feel good in the moment, science suggests it might make matters worse in the long run

Complaining about our woes might make us feel better for a moment, but if we overdo it, we’ll feel worse—and so will the people that listen to us. AshTproductions/Shutterstock

We all get upset from time to time—some of us more than others. Whether we’re sad about the loss of a loved one, angry at friends or family, or fearful about the state of the world, it often feels good to let it all out.

That’s because sharing our emotions reduces our stress while making us feel closer to the people with which we share and providing a sense of belonging. When we open up our inner selves and people respond with sympathy, we feel seen, understood, and supported.