Exploring the Link Between Anxiety and Anger – LORAzepamum Medical Blog
Are Anxiety and Anger related?
The feelings of anxiety and anger are distinct but closely related. While one feeling can stem from the other, the link between the two is often missed or exaggerated.
What is Anger?
Anger is an emotion characterized by dissent towards someone that we feel is responsible for our agony. It can arise when things in the past do not go our way. Anger causes anxiety by inducing stress in our mind and body.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is an emotion characterized by physical tension and worried thoughts when one loses control over emotions and the things happening in the surroundings. It often relates to future events that have not yet occurred. Anxiety can be associated with feelings of shame and guilt, which impact our self-esteem.
How are these two connected?
Anxiety and anger share common ground. Both emotions lead to physical changes, such as the release of stress hormones in the body. Our thoughts and feelings trigger both emotions, and our thought patterns can either improve or worsen them.
Both show similar physical symptoms.
When experiencing anger or anxiety, the body secretes hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, preparing it to fight or flee. Physical symptoms of anger or anxiety include sweating, rapid heartbeat, muscle spasms, chest tightening, headaches, and changes in bowel movements. If left untreated, these symptoms can have long-term effects on health.
Are they a new normal?
Everyone experiences anger and anxiety at times. In certain situations, anxiety may be logical, and anger can prompt necessary changes. When stress and tension are high, anxiety and anger may seem more prevalent, resembling psychological symptoms.
Resembling psychological symptoms
Psychologists suggest that both anxiety and anger can lead to a loss of control when faced with stressful situations. If one feels unequipped to handle the situation, anxiety may arise, which can quickly transform into anger if the threat intensifies. Anger may be an escalated version of anxiety, and individuals who struggle to express anger constructively may experience prolonged stress.
Health effects
Excessive anger and anxiety can negatively impact physical and mental health. Some health effects associated with these emotions include headaches, heart and lung diseases, high blood pressure, restlessness, and insomnia. Seeking medical advice is important if anger and anxiety become uncontrollable.
Anger and Anxiety Treatment
Various strategies can help manage and alleviate anger and anxiety. Physical exercise has been shown to reduce symptoms. Practicing mindfulness, which involves being aware of one’s senses and feelings without judgment, can help maintain mental and emotional balance. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is another effective approach that helps individuals break down overwhelming problems into smaller parts and develop positive coping mechanisms.
Final word
Anger and anxiety are closely linked emotions that serve as normal responses to perceived threats. They trigger similar hormonal responses in the body and share psychological connections. Experiencing these emotions excessively or intensely can impact mental and physical health, as well as relationships. Daily exercise, mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, and CBT can all help reduce the stress caused by excessive anger and anxiety. Learning how to manage these powerful emotions can contribute to a longer and happier life.