Words Really Do Hurt

So think before you speak

Photo by Alex Green from Pexels

We all learn the saying as a young child, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” However, new research has found that words trigger responses in certain areas of the brain that can cause pain in people of all ages. It’s important to think clearly before you speak and choose words carefully, especially when having difficult situations or talking about sensitive subjects.

As a child, we look up to people in positions of authority such as our teachers and our parents. Their words have drastic impacts on the development of a child’s brain and their behavior. As adults, we look up to role models and constantly listen to the words of other’s which can impact our self-esteem and the way we think of ourselves. Words are extremely important to the mental and emotional well-being of a person, so it’s important that we use them wisely and correctly.

When you make a comment towards another person that may subconsciously be out of your own anger, it can seriously affect the other person. Even if you may think it’s a joke, they can take it a completely different way and it can alter their mindset.

When others around you say disrespectful things, it’s usually a reflection of their mental well-being which is why it’s important to focus on inner-peace and self-confidence.

It’s just as important to be careful with your words around children as it is around adults. We’re all very sensitive creatures and negative words can be detrimental and painful. We hear what others say about us and these words can repeat over and over again in our minds, making us feel like we’re incapable or not good enough.

According to a study published in a Live Science article, there are many words that can trigger the section of the brain that stores painful experiences and memories. After hearing different words such as “grueling” and “tormenting”, their brains were scanned with a magnetic resonance imaging machine and the pain matrix was activated. This study proved that words really do have an impact on the brain.

It’s important to develop skills to protect yourself and your well-being from the painful words of others since unfortunately they’re inevitable. By meditating and spending time connecting…