Oct 05, 2024
How anger affects your brain, body, and emotions
Siddhartha JanaAnger significantly impacts both physical and mental health, with cortisol levels remaining elevated for up to 7 hours after an extreme outburst, leading to suppressed digestion, reduced brain function, thyroid issues, and blood sugar imbalances.
Source: Canva
Experiencing anger is normal, but intense and prolonged anger can harm overall well-being. It triggers the body’s "fight or flight" response, a survival mechanism controlled by the autonomic nervous system, specifically the sympathetic branch.
Source: Canva
When the brain detects a threat, the amygdala signals the hypothalamus to release stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones raise heart rate, blood pressure, and blood sugar, preparing the body for action.
Source: Canva
Anger often leads to muscle tension, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and jaw. Additionally, digestion slows down due to reduced blood flow to the digestive system, potentially causing nausea or an upset stomach.
Source: Canva
Prolonged and frequent anger increases the risk of serious health issues, including heart disease, weakened immune system function, and psychological problems like anxiety and depression.
Source: Canva
Mentally, anger can create feelings of frustration, guilt, sadness, and overthinking, making it difficult to concentrate and think clearly. Uncontrolled anger can lead to chronic stress, depression, and mental fatigue.
Source: Canva
Managing anger is crucial for maintaining both physical and mental health. Techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or relaxation exercises can help control anger and mitigate its harmful effects.
Source: Canva
Learning to stay calm in stressful situations is essential to reduce the long-term impact of anger on the mind and body, preventing both emotional and physical strain.
Source: Canva
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