By Suleiman Tajudeen
…continued from last week
shape how anger is perceived and expressed.
Effects of anger (Psychological)
Anxiety: Anger can contribute to anxiety.
Depression: Chronic anger can lead to depression.
Stress: Anger can increase stress levels.
Burnout: Prolonged anger can lead to burnout.
Relationship problems: Anger can strain relationships.
Low self-esteem: Anger can negatively impact self-esteem.
Cognitive impairment: Anger can impair cognitive function.
Mood swings: Anger can lead to mood instability.
Irritability: Increased irritability and short-temperedness.
Ruminations: Dwelling on angry thoughts.
Loss of emotional control: Difficulty managing emotions.
Increased aggression: Anger can lead to aggressive behavior.
Decreased empathy: Anger can reduce empathy for others.
Sleep disturbances: Anger can disrupt sleep patterns.
Decreased well-being: Anger can negatively impact overall well-being.
Effects of anger (Medical)
Hypertension: Chronic anger can contribute to high blood pressure.
Cardiovascular disease: Anger can increase the risk of heart disease.
Weakened immune system: Chronic anger can weaken the immune system.
Gastrointestinal issues: Anger can lead to stomach problems.
Headaches: Tension headaches can be triggered by anger.
Muscle tension: Anger can cause muscle tension and pain.
Sleep disturbances: Anger can disrupt sleep patterns.
Increased risk of stroke: Chronic anger can increase stroke risk.
Chronic pain: Anger can contribute to chronic pain.
Hormonal imbalances: Anger can disrupt hormonal balances.
Skin problems: Anger can exacerbate skin conditions.
Digestive problems: Anger can lead to digestive issues.
Increased risk of infections: Weakened immune system.
Fatigue: Chronic anger can lead to fatigue.
Decreased healing: Anger can impede the healing process.
Effects of anger (Social)
Strained relationships: Anger can damage relationships.
Social isolation: Chronic anger can lead to social isolation.
Conflict: Anger can lead to conflicts with others.
Decreased empathy: Anger can reduce empathy for others.
Aggressive behaviour: Anger can lead to aggressive behavior.
Loss of respect: Anger can lead to loss of respect from others.
Social problems: Anger can contribute to social problems.
Decreased cooperation: Anger can reduce cooperation with others.
Increased tension: Anger can create tension in social situations.
Negative reputation: Chronic anger can damage one’s reputation.
Difficulty in resolving conflicts: Anger can impede conflict resolution.
Strained communication: Anger can disrupt communication.
Loss of trust: Anger can lead to loss of trust.
Anger can impact work performance: Decreased productivity and performance.
Negative impact on social support: Anger can erode social support networks.
Effects of anger (Physiological)
Increased heart rate: Anger triggers the release of stress hormones, increasing heart rate.
Blood pressure spike: Chronic anger can lead to hypertension.
Muscle tension: Anger causes muscle tension, leading to pain and discomfort.
Adrenaline rush: Anger triggers the release of adrenaline, preparing the body for “fight or flight.”
Cortisol increase: Chronic anger can disrupt hormonal balances, leading to increased cortisol levels.
Inflammation: Anger can lead to chronic inflammation, increasing the risk of diseases.
Digestive issues: Anger can cause stomach problems, such as acid reflux or irritable bowel syndrome.
Headaches: Tension headaches can be triggered by anger.
Weakened immune system: Chronic anger can weaken the immune system.
Sleep disturbances: Anger can disrupt sleep patterns and quality.
Increased risk of cardiovascular disease: Chronic anger can increase the risk of heart disease.
Hormonal imbalances: Anger can disrupt hormonal balances, leading to mood swings and other issues.
Skin problems: Anger can exacerbate skin conditions like acne or eczema.
Fatigue: Chronic anger can lead to physical and mental exhaustion.
Decreased healing: Anger can impede the healing process by increasing stress hormones.
Management strategies
Effective management of anger involves:
Recognising triggers: Identifying what triggers anger.
Coping strategies: Using techniques like deep breathing, relaxation, or problem-solving to manage anger.
Communication: Expressing feelings of anger in a healthy, assertive way.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT): CBT can help children and adolescents identify and manage their anger.
Mindfulness-based interventions: Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing, can help reduce anger.
Physical activity: Regular physical activity can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute to anger.
Social skills training: Teaching social skills, such as communication and conflict resolution, can help manage anger.
Family therapy: Family therapy can help improve communication and relationships, reducing anger.
Relaxation techniques: Teaching relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation or visualization, can help manage anger.
Problem-solving skills: Teaching problem-solving skills can help children and adolescents manage anger and frustration.
Supportive relationships: Building supportive relationships with adults can help adolescents manage anger.
Anger management programmes: Implementing anger management programmes can provide children and adolescents with skills and strategies to manage anger.
Parent-child interaction therapy: This therapy can help parents and children improve their relationship and manage anger.
References
Beck, R., & Fernandez, E. (1998). Cognitive-behavioral therapy in the treatment of anger: A meta-analysis.
Cotterell, N. (2021). Seven steps for anger. (link unavailable) (2025). 11 Anger Management Therapy Techniques and Interventions.
Dr. Suleiman Tajudeen is a Director, Clinical Psychology, LUTH (Retired) & CEO & Director of Clinical Psychology, Clear Mind Psychological Consult, km 15, Badagry Expressway Ojo, Lagos State.
He can be reached via:
+234 803 402 4457
