New research indicates that frequently complaining about a stressful work life can lead to negative perceptions among colleagues.

A study by the University of Georgia Terry College of Business found that individuals who often speak about their stress are viewed as less competent and likable.

The researchers conducted surveys with hundreds of workers, discovering that those who regularly expressed stress were less likely to receive support from co-workers when genuinely overloaded.

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The study, published in Personnel Psychology, also revealed that this behavior could increase stress levels and burnout among colleagues. 

Constantly highlighting extreme busyness sets an unrealistic expectation that everyone should maintain intense workloads.

In essence, when someone frequently shares how overwhelmed they are, it can cause the entire office to feel similarly stressed and overwhelmed. 

While occasional venting is understandable, the researchers advise against consistently emphasizing work stress. 

Instead, they recommend finding healthier ways to manage stress. 

Managers should be aware of chronic stress complainers, as their behavior can negatively impact workplace culture.

“This is a behavior we’ve all seen, and we all might be guilty of at some point,” says Jessica Rodell, lead author of the study and a professor of management in UGA’s Terry College of Business, in a media release. “When I was wondering about why people do this, I thought maybe we are talking about our stress because we want to prove we’re good enough. We found out that often backfires.

“People are harming themselves by doing this thing they think is going to make them look better to their colleagues,” she added.

“If you genuinely feel stressed, it’s OK to find the right confidant to share with and talk about it,” Ms. Rodell said. “But be mindful that it is not a badge of honor to be bragged about — that will backfire. It’s not benign. It not only harms the bragging co-worker. If employees see somebody bragging about their stress, it will have a spillover effect that can have bigger implications for the workplace.”