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Everyone knows someone suffering with Calimero Syndrome without realising

Everyone knows someone suffering with Calimero Syndrome without realising

Millions of sufferers don't even know what Calimero Syndrome is - let alone the fact that they have it

We all do it. Whether it's about sitting in traffic, you're irritating friend or you're outfit not turning up on time - moaning makes the world go round.

But serial complainers are a completely different kettle of fish - the sky's always too blue and the grass is never green enough.

These specific grumps aren't shy about airing their grievances, so you probably are subjected to constant rants and miserable monologues.

A bit like this guy:

They sing the blues and scream bloody murder at the slightest inconvenience. Let's be honest, you're already thinking of someone.

You don't even have to ask how they are before they start spilling their latest story of why they deserve to wallow in self-pity.

But it seems we should be cutting these people some slack - as they might be suffering from Calimero Syndrome.

You're mate might have a valid reason to always be down in the dumps.
Getty stock images

Although it sounds pretty fancy, it's basically a nice way of saying a person is a constant complainer.

It gets its name from a 1960s Italian cartoon titled Calimero - and the title character knows a thing or two about making a fuss.

The little chick runs around with a half-broken eggshell on his head and is always moaning about something or other; while his tagline is 'but it's an injustice!'

Although the words might sound adorable coming from a cartoon chick, it's not as charming on a daily basis in real life.

French psychoanalyst Saverio Tomasella decided he was the perfect mascot to represent moaners around the world, seeing him coin the term Calimero Syndrome.

He penned a book on the phenomenon, explaining that although these feelings of sorrow might not be valid, there is often quite a serious reason behind them.

Serial complainers may actually be suffering from Calimero Syndrome.
Getty stock image

According to Tomasella, most sufferers come from similar backgrounds and have experienced socioeconomic hardship as well as experiencing a tough start in life - whatever that may be.

He claimed that these reasons are the basis of a Calimero's constant insignificant whining, as they live with the fear they will suffer injustice again, while refusing to deal with their past trauma.

The psychoanalyst explained that some poor souls are given privileges due to their unfortunate position, while others - who become Calimeros - are penalised. I suppose it makes their moaning quite valid after all.

They may have been humiliated, rejected, abandoned, or suffered serious trauma, meaning they're constantly climbing on their soapbox to share the load with their peers.

But instead of sharing the stories of their ordeals, Tomasella says they instead focus on superficial issues as it provides a brief outlet for their pain, without opening an intense can of worms about their past.

Sufferers are divided into three categories; people who want to feel seen, those who are happy to dwell in sorrow and a minority who are simply seeking the attention of others. Think Balotelli and his 'why always me?' shirt.

Whichever category a person falls into, mocking their moaning doesn't help anyone - even if their really droning on.

Being teased for their whinging makes a Calimero feel as though a fresh injustice has occured. So, according to Tomasella, you can run the risk of encouraging their tendency to sound off.

Those with Calimero Syndrome don't know how to knock themselves out of it and turn over a new leaf - so it's our responsibility to help them, as they aren't really out to annoy us with their relentless grumbling.

They don't say patience is a virtue for nothing.

Their complaining is pretty much a consistent cry for help, so make sure the person feels heard and respected.

Try and dig into the deep-rooted issues and you can hopefully help them start to deal with them and move on.

So, next time you're listening to a never-ending rant about them getting soaked by the rain - imagine they're a little cartoon chick with a half-broken shell on its head and give them some compassion.

Featured Image Credit: Ronnie Kauffman/Getty Westend61/Getty

Topics: Sex and Relationships