It is indisputable that anger has an important impact on our physical health and weakens our immune system. It is important to recognize that when our body experiences an outburst of anger, it causes an increase in cortisol and other hormones which negatively affect our health and wellbeing.
Anger is an emotion that we all experience at some point in our lives. Whether it is a frustrating situation, an argument, or an event that makes us angry, anger can have a negative impact on our body and mind. In fact, anger weakens our immune system and makes us more prone to illness.
Anger weakens us
The immune system is our natural defense system against viruses, bacteria and other disease-causing pathogens. When our immune system is strong, we are less likely to get sick. However, when we are angry, our fight or flight response kicks in and causes the body to release stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can weaken our immune system.
It can also have a negative impact on our sleep patterns and our eating, which directly affects our immune system. When we get angry, it is more difficult to fall asleep or achieve deep sleep. In turn, our eating patterns can also be altered, causing us to overeat or not eat enough.
Another possible negative consequence is that it can affect our mental health. If anger becomes chronic, it can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders. In turn, it can reflect on our relationships and our body’s response to handle stress.
We should know how to manage anger and learn how to control ourselves
The question is, how can we manage anger effectively to protect our immune system and our overall health.
Controlling anger can be a challenge, but it is important so that it doesn’t become a real problem. Here are some strategies that can help us manage our emotions effectively:
- Recognize the signs of anger: some of the signs may include rapid breathing, muscle tension, increased heart rate and negative thoughts.
- Practice relaxation: When we feel anger creeping up on us, we should relax. Meditation, deep breathing, yoga or exercise, among others, can help us release tension and frustration.
- Communicate our emotions: Instead of expressing anger in a negative way, it is positive to communicate our feelings in an assertive and constructive way.
- Seek perspective: Try to see the situation from a different perspective.
- Let’s pause: If we feel that anger is reaching a critical point, focus on taking a break. Take a short walk, drink some water, or listen to relaxing music.
- Find solutions: Think of ways to effectively address the problem and work on the solution.
- Seek professional help: If we are having difficulty controlling anger on our own, consider seeking professional help by initiating therapy or counseling.
