Understanding Anger: A Guide by Dr. Sarah Baxley

Hello, dear readers! Today, I want to talk to you about a powerful emotion that we all experience at some point in our lives: anger. As a physician, I have seen how anger can affect both our physical and mental well-being. In this blog post, I will discuss how anger can be both helpful and harmful, what it feels like, common causes of anger, and most importantly, how it can be managed effectively.

How is Anger Helpful?

Anger is a natural emotion that can serve a purpose in our lives. It can be a signal that something is wrong or unjust, motivating us to take action and make positive changes. When channeled appropriately, anger can help us set boundaries, stand up for ourselves, and drive us to seek solutions to problems.

How is Anger Harmful?

On the flip side, unchecked anger can be harmful. It can lead to destructive behavior, strained relationships, and even physical health problems. Long-term anger can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and weaken the immune system. Mentally, chronic anger can contribute to anxiety, depression, and overall poor mental health.

What does anger feel like?

When we experience anger, our bodies go into a heightened state of arousal. You might notice your heart racing, muscles tensing, and a feeling of heat rising in your body. Mentally, anger can cloud our judgment, making it difficult to think clearly and rationally.

What are some common causes of anger?

Common causes of anger include feeling misunderstood, mistreated, or threatened. Stressful situations, unmet expectations, and past experiences can also trigger feelings of anger. It's important to recognize that anger is a normal emotion, but it's how we respond to it that matters.

How can we manage anger effectively?

One key strategy is to practice self-awareness. Pay attention to your triggers and early warning signs of anger. Take a moment to pause and breathe before reacting impulsively. Learning healthy coping mechanisms such as deep breathing, mindfulness, physical exercise, or talking to a trusted friend or therapist can also help diffuse anger.

If you find that anger is impacting your daily life and relationships, I encourage you to seek help. As a physician at Access Now Primary Care, I am here to support you on your journey towards managing your anger in a healthy way. To schedule an appointment, please call 850-842-1403 or visit our website.

Remember, you are not alone in your struggles with anger. With the right tools and support, you can learn to navigate this powerful emotion and lead a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Take care of yourself,

Dr. Sarah Baxley