Is Swearing Great for You? Research Says Yes

By Kenny Servera 2 min read

Sometimes mouthing off can be bad for you, especially if you are in the workplace or a school environment. However, recent studies show that swearing actually can be quite beneficial for your health.

According to a study by Neroreport, cursing on a daily basis indicates that you have a large vocabulary. The study also shows that swearing can help alleviate any pain that you may be harboring.

Participants in the study were asked to utter a curse word while having one of their hands submerged in ice cold water. It was concluded that swearing actually decreased physical pain.

Another study by Dr. Neel Burton on Psychology Today found that swearing brings many perks such as boosting self-confidence, and increased bonding within groups of friends that, “If done correctly, it can also signal that we are open, honest, self-deprecating, easygoing, and barrel loads of fun.”

Burton also notes some physical health benefits.

“The health benefits of swearing include increased circulation, elevated endorphins, and an overall sense of calm, control, and well-being.” But Burton warns, “The key is to do it sparingly and not to get angry at the same time, which would be very bad for you—as well as terribly vulgar.”

According to a Time article, psychologists at England’s Keele University revealed that cursing actually is a “harmless creative emotional release,” that serves as a “coping mechanism and can help us feel more resilient.”