Griping: A Healthcare Necessity or Workplace Harm?

Complaining about work, or “griping,” is a behavior nearly everyone in healthcare engages in at some point. Research suggests that it can bring both benefits and drawbacks depending on how, when, and why it occurs.

On the positive side, voicing frustrations provides emotional relief, reducing stress and preventing negative feelings from building up. Many studies indicate that when people complain to supportive colleagues, friends, or EVS, it can strengthen social bonds and create a sense of validation.

Shared complaints can even foster camaraderie in the workplace, helping employees feel less isolated in their frustrations. Additionally, venting can open the door to problem-solving, not that your management or administration will listen, but others may suggest solutions or new perspectives not previously considered.

Even in the short term, simply releasing pent-up frustrations can lead to an improved mood, while some studies suggest that SHARED complaints, especially when mixed with humor, can increase team engagement and resilience.

Conversely, frequent or unchecked complaining has significant downsides - not as bad as toxic positivity, but still bad. Repeatedly voicing the same grievances can reinforce negative thinking and contribute to rumination. Ever heard of speaking things into existence?

Research shows that complaining without any attempt to solve problems may reduce constructive action, and increase feelings of helplessness. Over time, a pattern of constant griping can create a toxic workplace environment, drain morale, spread frustration, and undermine trust. Unless you’re funny about it.

Chronic negativity has also been linked to heightened physiological stress responses, such as increased cortisol levels, which may harm both mental and physical health, but hey, it’s still better than working night shift.

Ultimately, the research indicates that complaining is most beneficial when practiced in moderation and in the right context. Venting works best when the individual is emotionally aware, chooses a safe and supportive audience (or anyone that will listen), and pairs their complaints with reflection or constructive action.

When balanced with humor or shared experiences, griping can even enhance workplace culture and resilience. However, when overused or misdirected, it can have the opposite effect, deepening stress and damaging relationships. The key lies in how intentionally and constructively complaints are expressed.

Sources:

• Stress.org – Complaining About Work and Creating Stress

• Binghamton University – Research on Workplace Gossip

• Psychology Partners Group – Ill Effects of Venting

• SkillPath – Does Complaining Make Us Feel Better?

• Walton College of Business, University of Arkansas – Venting in the Workplace

• Gethppy.com – Complaining and Employee Engagement

• Futurity.org – Complaining at Work