Top 10 Biggest Disadvantages of Being Left Handed

Being left-handed can feel like navigating a world that wasn't built with you in mind. From simple daily inconveniences to more unexpected challenges, there's no denying that lefties often have to adapt in ways right-handed people don't even think about. But before you go through this list, take a step back and keep things in perspective. While some of these points are based on studies or real experiences, correlation doesn't always mean causation. Just because certain traits or conditions have been associated with left-handedness doesn't mean they're a direct result of it.

At the end of the day, everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses, and being left-handed is just one of many traits that make people unique. Some of the greatest artists, thinkers, and athletes throughout history have been left-handed, proving that any supposed disadvantage doesn't have to hold anyone back. This list isn't here to make lefties feel bad. It's meant to be an interesting look at the quirks and struggles that can come with being in the minority.
The Top Ten
Being left-handed is linked to mental illnesses

Sadly, this may be one of the biggest worries if you're left-handed. A study shows that people who are left-handed are more likely to develop schizophrenia. When you look at schizophrenic patients, there's a 40% chance that they are left-handed. It's pretty scary to think about.

Wait, what! But I'm left-handed and I don't have any mental illnesses, or do I?

Higher risk of breast cancer

If you're a girl like me, then prepare to be disappointed. A study from 2007 shows that left-handed women are more likely to have breast cancer in their lifetime. It's particularly common for women who have experienced menopause.

Left-handed people are more likely to drink alcohol

I'm not sure why, but it's been shown that left-handed people are more susceptible to alcohol abuse. A 2017 study shows that left-handed people are also more likely to be addicted to drugs such as heroin. Fortunately, this doesn't affect me, as I have no interest in using drugs and I only drink water anyway.

Left-handed people are more likely to have sleep problems

If you do most things with your left hand, then your sleep is more likely to be affected differently. A study has shown that people who are left-handed are more likely to develop limb-related problems, especially during their sleep. In short, you are more likely to jerk your legs or arms involuntarily while sleeping.

Being forced to use their right hand for certain tasks

Sadly, it seems as if the world is meant for right-handed people! Good thing I can adapt fairly well, but my right hand is still not as skilled as my left hand.

Yup, also sharpeners and certain kitchen tools can be a struggle for me.

Left-handed people are more likely to be embarrassed

Left-handed people tend to be more conscious about doing something wrong. A behavioral study tested 46 left-handed people and 66 right-handed people, showing that left-handed individuals agreed more with statements about being shy and easily embarrassed. I guess this explains why I'm an introvert.

Left-handed people are more prone to being scared

Being left-handed is more linked to experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder. It's more likely to experience this effect the more strongly left-handed you are. This is because most left-handed people are more right-brain dominant than right-handed people, and the right brain is connected to emotions.

So, think twice before you watch a scary movie or something that has jump scares!

Left-handed people have difficulty using scissors

Most scissors are designed for right-handed people, although there are a few scissors that suit left-handed people. If you don't happen to have a left-handed scissor, then you're basically doomed.

Left-handed people are more prone to anger issues

Not only is it linked to anger issues, but left-handed people are also more likely to be pessimistic. I guess it has to do with our brain hemispheres short-circuiting everything. This is why we have a short fuse.

Bumping elbows with the person next to them

Say you're at a dining table and you sit next to a person that's right-handed. Being polar opposites, you tend to bump elbows with each other. This gets very annoying when you're trying to eat.

The Contenders
Left-handed people are more prone to allergies
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