End Arguments Quickly to Be Happier and Healthier

“A recent Oregon State University study found that when people feel they have resolved an argument, the emotional response associated with that disagreement is significantly reduced and, in some situations, almost entirely erased” (OregonState.edu, March 24, 2021). This halts the stress-response cycle that, left unchecked, increases risks for heart attack, weakens the immune system, and causes reproductive problems and digestive issues.

Not only can people who end arguments quickly experience less stress, but they can also avoid the detrimental effects of prolonged stress on the mind and body. In fact, study results showed that “on the day of an argument or avoided argument, people who felt their encounter was resolved reported roughly half the reactivity of those whose encounters were not resolved.” And on the day after an argument, those who felt the issue was resolved showed absolutely no elevated negative effects. Researchers observed that, in the case of an altercation or argument, “the extent to which you can tie off the stress so it’s not having this gnawing impact at you over the course of the day or a few days will help minimize the potential long-term impact.”

While this finding involved multiple highly educated researchers and data collected from over 2,000 people, the wisdom of not going to sleep angry is not new. Nearly 2,000 years ago, God inspired the Apostle Paul to advise followers of Christ, “‘Be angry, and do not sin’: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil” (Ephesians 4:26–27). Today, we just have more biological information regarding why this directive is wise from the perspective of our physical health as well. If we allow our disagreements to continue from day to day, we actually give the devil an opportunity to cause further division in our relationships. The Bible truly is a book for today, and following God’s wise directives results in a healthier and happier life. To learn more, watch “Secrets to Happiness.”