How Anger Hurts Health

The Affects of Ill Emotions

© Rica Lewis

May 18, 2009
 Screaming Mouth , EmmiP
Anger is a basic human emotion. And while everyone experiences anger, some individuals experience more anger in their lives.

Some people are able to push past irritations and recover from ill emotions rather quickly. Perhaps these individuals have a different perspective on life and are better able to deal with circumstances that would provoke others to anger. This perspective may be called a positive outlook.

Positive Outlook

A positive outlook has emotional benefits that include personal satisfaction. Those who are positive may also function better due to less stress affecting mental clarity, but research also proves those who see the glass half full experience better health.

Lowered Immunity

Those who stew in anger may find themselves sneezing, coughing, and nursing aches and pains. This is due to the lowered immune function that begins with anger. In addition, research proves those who are often angry may frequently respond by using alcohol and smoking.

Heart Health

For those who hold on to hostility, heart health may be compromised. Researchers noted an increased risk of heart attacks among those with a history of cardiovascular disease, leading even to death.

Stroke

When a blood vessel carrying blood to the brain is blocked by a clot, an ischemic stroke occurs. It is estimated that an ischemic stroke afflicts an individual approximately every 40 seconds in America. While high blood pressure is the most common cause of strokes, physical factors like anger and depression may result in high blood pressure.

Weight Gain

Angry individuals will have another reason for rage—weight gain. Cortisol (the stress hormone that triggers the fight or flight response in the body) may be secreted in unhealthy amounts when stress and anger persist. Negative effects of too much cortisol can include:

  • Increased weight (particularly in the abdomen)
  • Blood sugar imbalances
  • Supressed thyroid function
  • High blood pressure
  • Lower immunity

Headaches

Those who internalize anger may also experience headaches more frequently.

Steps to Sanity

Anger is not an easy emotion to purge. Getting anger to go away may take time, and work. But those desiring to do so can take simple steps to maintain sanity, and rein in resentment.

Exercise

Tightening and toning are not the only benefits of exercise; helping to tame a temper may be at the top of the list for angry or stressed individuals. Increased endorphins may lift mood and promote wellbeing.

Laughter

The Bible offers many words of wisdom that can be practically applied, like “laughter doeth good like a medicine.” Learn to laugh at life. When anger creeps in, watch a comedy, call a funny friend, or sift through the Sunday funnies. Do whatever possible to quash all qualms.

Prayer

Those who pray and count their blessings are able to bridle their fears, frustrations, and anxiety.

There are many methods for extinguishing ill emotions, and turning a temper around. Music, sports, reading, crafts, hobbies, and art are some examples. Find a few, and focus on them.


The copyright of the article How Anger Hurts Health in Mind/Body Fitness is owned by Rica Lewis . Permission to republish How Anger Hurts Health in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.


 Screaming Mouth , EmmiP
       


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