• Money
    • Budget
    • Shop
    • Travel
    • Stories
  • Career
    • Advice
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Freelance
    • Small Business
  • Investing
    • General
    • IRA + 401K
    • Stocks + Bonds
    • Retirement Planning
    • Estate
  • The Basics
    • Student Loans
    • Credit Cards
    • Debt
    • Taxes
    • More
  1. Home
  2. Money
  3. Stories
  4. A New Study Says Worrying Might Actually Be Good

A New Study Says Worrying Might Actually Be Good

May 8, 2017
By: Elena Sheppard
  • Share
  • Share on Facebook
worrying
credit: @miller.lyle via Twenty20

We're constantly told we worry too much, but there's a new study out with evidence that says a little bit of worry is fine: in fact, it might actually be good for us.

Video of the Day

A new paper by psychology professor Kate Sweeny argues that worrying is good for both our body and our mind. "Despite its negative reputation, not all worry is destructive or even futile," Sweeny says. "It has motivational benefits, and it acts as an emotional buffer."

In her article, "The Surprising Upsides of Worry," Sweeny states that worry is an important motivator and protector, and that it prevents people from entering unpleasant situations.

For instance, if you're worried about sun damage, you are more likely to wear sunscreen. If you are worried about never writing that novel, you are more likely to put pen to paper. If you're worried about getting into an accident, you will put your seatbelt on. That's all good worry.

Of course, too much worry is not a good thing either. "Extreme levels of worry are harmful to one's health. I do not intend to advocate for excessive worrying. Instead, I hope to provide reassurance to the helpless worrier -- planning and preventive action is not a bad thing," Sweeny says. "Worrying the right amount is far better than not worrying at all."

Well that makes us feel better.

Show Comments

Related Articles

Think You're a Big Spender? Think Again

Think You're a Big Spender? Think Again

Money
Budget
By: Esther Bergdahl
Need to Professionally Motivate? Hang With Motivated People

Need to Professionally Motivate? Hang With Motivated People

Career
Advice
By: Elena Sheppard

PARTNER CONTENT

7 Habits of Highly (Financially) Effective People

7 Habits of Highly (Financially) Effective People

Happy Treat Yo Self Day!

Happy Treat Yo Self Day!

Money
Shop
By: Nicole White
How to Change Direct Deposit of a Social Security Check

How to Change Direct Deposit of a Social Security Check

Investing
General
By: Jacqui Lane
Group Workouts Are Better for Your Health

Group Workouts Are Better for Your Health

Money
Shop
By: Esther Bergdahl

Get Weekly Savings& Finance Tips.

  • Money
  • Career
  • Investing
  • The Basics
  • About
  • Contact Us
  • Terms
  • Privacy Policy
  • Copyright Policy
© 2019 Leaf Group Ltd. Leaf Group Media

Get Weekly Savings
& Finance Tips.

Money Made Easier.

Please enter a valid email.