The Science of Being Heard

Sure, talking about things that are on our minds and having someone listen feels good but is there any research behind it? Actually, yes.

A 2007 UCLA brain imaging study revealed that verbalizing feelings lights up the prefrontal cortex, which is related to both processing and inhibiting behavior. In other words, talking about your feelings - negative or otherwise - can actually make them less intense.

According to University of Arizona psychologist Methias Mehl, people who have more deep and meaningful conversations are more likely to be happy. He recorded the conversations of 79 college students and found that those who had more profound interactions also self-reported as being happier.

For older adults, who can often experience loneliness, the opportunity to share their stories can help them to organize their thoughts, including where they fit into the overarching narrative of their own lives. Storytellers are able to identify and understand the themes and goals that have driven their lives, and to focus on their achievements, which improves self-esteem and a feeling of control over ones’ life. Research has also shown that in addition to helping people deal with negative feelings, “nostalgizing” may also ignite parts of the brain that would otherwise remain dormant, ultimately boosting overall recall and memory. Talking about the past has also been linked to lowered blood pressure and heart rates.

Who Can Benefit

If you’re a human being, then you will benefit from being listened to, attentively and with compassion.

Whatever your age, gender identity, race, socioeconomic status, sexual identity, ability or disability, relationship status, parental status or national origin, you will benefit from being listened to.