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Mansfield University Associate Professor of Psychology Nicolle Mayo stepped into the studio to discuss the Movin’ Together tool of thanks!

Nicolle has joined me many times for Movin’ Together, and this time, we discussed the difference between complaining and thanking!

Let’s start by reviewing Dr. Nicolle Mayo’s information on the broadcast, including details on thanking or expressing gratitude. Thanking or expressing gratitude involves different brain regions that promote emotions and social connection.

Three parts of the brain are responsible: the Prefrontal Cortex (PFC), the Anterior Cingulate Cortex (ACC), and the Nucleus Accumbens.
The PFC helps process gratitude and make decisions that align with positive prosocial behaviors. It is involved in self-regulation and promoting feelings of satisfaction and well-being.
The Anterior Cingulate Cortex plays a role in emotional regulation and empathy. When we express gratitude, this area is active, helping us connect with others and recognize the positive aspects of our lives.
The Nucleus Accumbens is the part of the brain involved in reward processing. It’s activated when we experience or express gratitude, making it feel pleasurable and reinforcing prosocial behavior.

The four hormones released when we are thankful are Oxytocin, Dopamine, Serotonin, and Endorphins.
Oxytocin: Known as the “bonding hormone” or love hormone because when it is released, it promotes feelings of trust, warmth, and social bonding.
Dopamine: The feel-good neurotransmitter dopamine is released when we feel pleasure or reward. Expressing gratitude often leads to a dopamine boost, enhancing our happiness and satisfaction.
Serotonin: This neurotransmitter helps regulate mood, and expressing gratitude can increase serotonin levels, promoting a sense of well-being and emotional balance.
Endorphins: They are the body’s natural painkillers and mood boosters. Gratification can increase endorphins, which in turn can lead to feelings of joy and contentment.

Healthy Benefits of Using The Tool of Thanks
Improved Mental Health
Enhanced Emotional Resilience
Better relationship
Stronger Immune System
Increased Happiness and Life Satisfaction
Reduced Stress

Complaining originates in several brain areas but primarily involves The Prefrontal Cortex (PFC), The Amygdala, and the Ventral Striatum.

The Prefrontal cortex (PFC) is responsible for decision-making, judgment, and regulating emotions. When we complain, the PFC is engaged in processing negative thoughts and evaluating situations.

The Amygdala is the brain’s emotional center. It helps process emotions like fear and anger, which often accompany complaints. When we feel frustrated, upset, or wronged, the Amygdala triggers an emotional response, fueling the urge to complain.

The Ventral Stratum is associated with reward and motivation. Complaining can be reinforcing, creating a feedback loop of emotional release, which might feel temporarily satisfying, even though it can ultimately contribute to negative emotions in the long run!

The hormones released when we complain are Cortisol, Adrenaline, and Prolactin.
Cortisol: The stress hormone that increases when we perceive threats, frustration, or anxiety. Chronic complaining can elevate cortisol levels, leading to prolonged stress.
Adrenaline: The hormone the body uses to initiate a fight-or-flight response. Complaining can trigger a mild stress response, increasing the hate rate and arousal, which can negatively affect the body if it happens frequently.
Prolactin: This hormone has been linked to the body’s stress response. Pronged complaining can elevate prolactin levels, which might contribute to feelings of emotional distress or low mood.

Adverse Effects of Complaining on Health
Chronic complaining can have numerous adverse effects on our mental and physical health:
Increased stress and anxiety
Weakened Immune System
Increased Risk of Heart Disease
Negative impact on mental healthy
Reduced brain function and memory—Long-term stress can impair cognitive functions like memory, concentration, and problem-solving by affecting the hippocampus and other brain areas.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family and friends!