It’s said that misery loves company — but in truth, misery loves misery. People who are deeply unhappy often feel safest when others around them mirror the same mood. Why?

🔹 Psychology explains: When someone hasn’t learned to self-soothe or process emotions, they project their discomfort outward. Seeing others joyful only reminds them of what they lack — so they criticize, complain, or sabotage to bring the atmosphere back down to their level. It’s not always conscious, but it’s corrosive.

🔹 Neuroscience explains: Our nervous systems are built for emotional contagion. We “catch” each other’s moods through mirror neurons, tone of voice, and body language. For the chronically negative, joy feels threatening to their sense of safety. Their amygdala fires up, interpreting other people’s happiness as rejection or loss of control. Instead of rising into joy, they drag others down into misery — where they feel more regulated.

But here’s the good news: joy is just as contagious. When we set boundaries, choose laughter, and surround ourselves with people who can celebrate freely, our brains release dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin — rewiring us for connection and resilience.

So the next time misery tries to pull you in, remember:
✨ Protect your joy.
✨ Guard your laughter.
✨ Choose company that uplifts, not drains.

Because misery may love misery — but joy loves freedom.