What is angry

It can be clear that somebody is angry from what they say or how they say it, or from their tone of voice. Anger can also be expressed through body language and other non-verbal cues: trying to look physically bigger and therefore more intimidating , staring, frowning and clenching of fists.

Some people are very good at internalising their anger and it may be difficult to notice any physical signs. At a basic instinctual level anger may be used as a way to help protect territory or family members, secure or protect mating privileges, protect against loss of food or other possessions, or as a response to other perceived threats.

Other reasons can be very diverse - sometimes rational and sometimes irrational. Irrational anger may mean that you have a problem with managing anger or even accepting that you are angry - our page on Anger Management covers ways that you can understand and manage your anger or that of other people.

There are often both physical and emotional symptoms to anger and, by recognising these, you are more likely to be able to control them. When we are angry, our bodies release the hormones adrenaline and cortisol, the same hormones released when we encounter stress. As a result of these releases in hormones our blood pressure, pulse, body temperature and breathing rate may increase, sometimes to potentially dangerous levels.

This natural chemical reaction is designed to give us an instant boost of energy and power and is often referred to as the 'fight or flight' reaction. This means that the body and mind prepare for a fight or for running away from danger. However, people who get angry often cannot manage their anger effectively and can become ill, just as stress that is left unresolved may make you ill.

Our bodies are not designed to withstand high levels of adrenaline and cortisol over long periods or on a very regular basis. Some of the health problems that may occur as a result of being angry regularly or for long periods of time can include:. Anger could be a reaction to physical pain, a response to feelings of fear, to protect yourself from a perceived attack, or in response to a frustrating situation.

Anger is often caused by a trigger this could be either rational or irrational. Some common triggers that cause anger include:. Anger could also be a symptom or response to a medical condition. Anger could be a symptom of depression, substance abuse, ADHD , or bipolar disorder. There are three main types of anger.

Anger can also be expressed in either one of two ways: verbally or nonverbally. Anger is a normal emotion we all feel, and for most people, they can find ways to express it in a healthy way. However, some people need treatment. The most common way to treat excessive anger is with therapy.

But some people experience anger suddenly and intensely without being able to curb it or identify the triggers behind it. If you are experiencing frequent and intense bursts of anger that are causing physical and emotional damage to you or the people around you then you might need professional help with dealing with your anger.

Anger management therapy is used to help you learn healthy ways to cope with the emotion. Finding ways to cope with anger is very important. When we allow anger to take control of our lives, it can affect everything we do. It can damage relationships with our loved ones and cause problems in our workplace. Learning to cope with your anger is a skill you can learn. Go through coping mechanisms that have worked for you and try them again.

It's important to remember that when expressed properly, anger is a healthy emotion. It can also be beneficial in dangerous situations, as the emotion triggers our fight or flight response. In some cases, this can be helpful in getting us out of a dangerous situation. Learn the best ways to manage stress and negativity in your life. American Psychological Association. How to recognise and deal with anger. Anger and health risk behaviors. J Med Life. Williams R.

Anger as a basic emotion and its role in personality building and pathological growth: the neuroscientific, developmental and clinical perspectives. Health problems with anger The constant flood of stress chemicals and associated metabolic changes that go with ongoing unmanaged anger can eventually cause harm to many different systems of the body. Some of the short and long-term health problems that have been linked to unmanaged anger include: headache digestion problems, such as abdominal pain insomnia increased anxiety depression high blood pressure skin problems, such as eczema heart attack stroke.

Expressing anger in healthy ways Suggestions on how to express your anger in healthy ways include: If you feel out of control, walk away from the situation temporarily, until you cool down. Recognise and accept the emotion as normal and part of life. Try to pinpoint the exact reasons why you feel angry. Once you have identified the problem, consider coming up with different strategies for how to remedy the situation.

Do something physical, such as going for a run or playing sport. Unhelpful ways to deal with anger Many people express their anger in inappropriate and harmful ways, including: anger explosions — some people have very little control over their anger and tend to explode in rages.

Raging anger may lead to physical abuse or violence. Some people who fly into rages have low self-esteem, and use their anger as a way to manipulate others and feel powerful.

However, bottled anger often turns into depression and anxiety. Some people vent their bottled anger at innocent parties, such as children or pets. Dealing with arguments When you have had an argument, it is easy to stay angry or upset with the other person. Reasons for dealing with arguments There are good reasons for dealing with arguments, including: It will give you a sense of achievement and make you feel more positive.

You may feel more relaxed, healthier and more able to get a good night's sleep. You may develop stronger relationships. You may feel happier. Suggestions for long-term anger management The way you typically express anger may take some time to modify.

Suggestions include: Keep a diary of your anger outbursts, to try and understand how and why you get mad. Consider assertiveness training, or learning about techniques of conflict resolution. Learn relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga. See a counsellor or psychologist if you still feel angry about events that occurred in your past. Exercise regularly. Benefits of regular exercise in mood management People who are stressed are more likely to experience anger.

Teaching children how to express anger Expressing anger appropriately is a learned behaviour. Suggestions on helping your child to deal with strong feelings include: Lead by example. Let them know that anger is natural and should be expressed appropriately. Teach practical problem-solving skills. Encourage open and honest communication in the home.