Self-commiseration

Self-commiseration refers to the act or process of feeling or expressing sympathy for oneself, especially in an excessive or self-indulgent manner. It involves dwelling on one's own misfortunes, difficulties, or perceived inadequacies and often manifests as excessive complaining, self-pity, or a tendency to exaggerate the severity of personal problems. The individual focuses inward, highlighting their own suffering and often seeking validation or comfort from others, even when the situation doesn't objectively warrant such heightened emotional response. It's a form of negative self-focus that can impede problem-solving and overall well-being. Prolonged Self-commiseration can become a detrimental pattern of behavior.

Self-commiseration meaning with examples

• After losing his job, John spent weeks in Self-commiseration, constantly reminding his friends and family how unfairly he'd been treated. He repeatedly lamented his financial struggles and inability to find comparable employment, ignoring opportunities that presented themselves. His constant wallowing prevented him from taking any concrete steps toward re-employment or improving his situation.
• Sarah's Self-commiseration about her dating life dominated conversations. Every failed date led to an outpouring of complaints about 'bad' men and her own perceived shortcomings. Instead of reflecting on her own behavior, she chose to feel sorry for herself, ultimately pushing away potential matches because of her negative energy and constant complaints.
• Following the minor car accident, Mark engaged in excessive self-commiseration. He exaggerated his physical discomfort, despite the doctor's assurances, and focused on the potential inconveniences rather than appreciating his lack of major injury, allowing negative thoughts to take over.
• The artist, though having some success, fell into periods of Self-commiseration due to the lack of recognition he felt he deserved, fixating on his perceived failures and under appreciating his successes. He neglected to create new art because of the negative mental state he'd fallen into and refused opportunities to grow.
• Despite numerous advantages, the trust fund heir indulged in self-commiseration. He was always pointing out challenges in life and used the feeling of victimhood to validate his feelings, ignoring his privileged background and the assistance he received, choosing negativity over gratitude and hard work.