Why is it important to understand your relationship with anger?

Anger is a normal and healthy emotion that can be valuable when understood and utilized correctly. It is neither good nor bad but, instead, conveys a vital message just like any other emotion. 

Since anger is such a strong feeling, it physically and mentally prepares you to take action. It's sometimes better to harness this intense physical and emotional energy in more constructive ways. 

How Anger Affects You

Anger has psychological effects but also physical side effects such as muscle tension, headaches, and back pain. It can have severe consequences and affect the following parts of your life:

• Physical health
• Mental health
• Career
• Relationships

The Connection Between Anger & Recovery

People who struggle with substance use and dependency often have a complicated relationship with anger. They sometimes have trouble managing their emotions. When negative emotions such as fear, sadness, grief, guilt, or powerlessness arise, an anger response works as a shield. Understanding your relationship with anger, such as what triggers it, can support the recovery journey.

Learn to Manage Your Anger

Although anger is healthy at times, there are more productive ways to respond in most situations. Aside from being assaulted, mistreated, or in danger, it is better to communicate your feelings than to get angry. Not only will this benefit your health, but it will improve your relationships.

Always remember that anger is often a secondary feeling that occurs in response to your other emotions, which means there is more going on beneath the surface than you realize. By exploring your primary emotions, you can better understand your relationship with anger.