A growing body of scientific research is raising concerns about the hidden health dangers of negative relationships, with experts warning that “difficult people” in one’s life may actually accelerate the ageing process.

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has found that individuals who frequently interact with problematic or stressful people, referred to as “hasslers”, experience faster biological ageing compared to those with healthier social networks.

How Negative Relationships Affect Your Health

Researchers describe “hasslers” as individuals who consistently create stress, cause problems, or make life more difficult. These relationships act as chronic stressors, triggering repeated emotional and physiological strain.

Over time, this stress can lead to inflammation, weakened immunity, and increased risk of chronic diseases, factors strongly linked to faster ageing.

Study Finds Measurable Impact on Biological Age

The study, which analysed data from over 2,000 participants, found a clear pattern:

• Each additional “difficult person” in an individual’s social circle increased their rate of biological ageing by about 1.5%.
• This means a person could age faster than their actual years, accumulating long-term health risks.

Biological ageing refers to how quickly the body’s cells and systems deteriorate, which may not always match chronological age. Scientists measured this using DNA markers from saliva samples.

Widespread but Often Overlooked Problem

The research also highlights that these negative social ties are common. Nearly 30% of people report having at least one “hassler” in their lives, often among colleagues, acquaintances, or even family members.

Interestingly, not all relationships have the same effect. Positive and supportive relationships are known to improve longevity and overall well-being, effectively acting as a protective factor against ageing.

Experts Advise Setting Boundaries

While the study does not definitively prove that difficult people directly cause ageing, the strong association has led experts to recommend proactive steps.

These include:

• Setting clear emotional and social boundaries
• Reducing exposure to consistently stressful individuals
• Strengthening supportive and positive relationships

Health experts caution that managing social stress is just as important as maintaining a healthy diet or exercise routine when it comes to long-term well-being.

A New Perspective on Healthy Living

The findings underscore a broader shift in how scientists understand ageing, not just as a biological process, but one deeply influenced by social environments.

As research continues, one message is becoming increasingly clear: the company you keep may play a significant role in how fast you age.