Is your temper tampering with your health? The hidden costs of anger you can't ignore
The Science Behind Your Anger
Why Do Some People Get Angry More Often?
Managing Your Anger for Better Health
iStock
Changing your mindset about frustrating people or situations can also lessen anger's hold. (Representational image: iStock)
You Might Also Like:
Why you keep rewatching 'Friends', and what It really says about your mental health?
We all get angry — it's a natural part of being human. But what happens when that frustration starts to take over your life? Dr. Raymond Chip Tafrate, a clinical psychologist and co-author of Anger Management for Everyone, reminds us that while anger can be a useful signal that something needs to change, constant or intense anger can seriously harm both your mind and body. Could your quick temper be more than just a personality trait — could it be sabotaging your health?According to a report from USA Today, anger isn't always the villain. It can motivate action, spark difficult conversations, or fuel personal change. For example, getting upset about a health issue or social injustice can push you toward positive steps. But Tafrate warns that anger becomes problematic when it's frequent, overwhelming, or lingers too long. The key difference lies in how you express it: confronting an issue calmly versus reacting impulsively in the heat of the moment.Anger is rooted deep in human evolution — a response designed to help ancestors survive threats. Today, the triggers are less about immediate danger and more about perceived unfairness, personal slights, or daily stressors. Ethan Kross, a psychology professor at the University of Michigan , explains that anger often arises when our sense of what's right is violated, prompting a desire to fix the problem.If you find yourself feeling angry all the time, you're not alone — and there are many reasons why. Some people face more daily frustrations or injustices, whether in their work, family life, or through constant exposure to distressing news and social media. Others grew up in environments where anger was the default reaction or are genetically wired with a more reactive nervous system. External factors like poor sleep, illness, substance use, or stress can also amplify anger's grip.Uncontrolled anger is more than a social problem — it's a health hazard. Chronic anger floods your body with stress hormones, increasing the risk of heart disease, weakened immunity, and mental health struggles. But managing anger is possible, and crucial. Kross suggests simple yet effective strategies: step away from the trigger, take deep breaths, count backward, or engage in calming activities like listening to music or exercising.Changing your mindset about frustrating people or situations can also lessen anger's hold. When possible, avoid known triggers—whether that's a toxic coworker or doomscrolling through negative news. Prioritizing self-care by sleeping well, eating right, and limiting alcohol or caffeine can further stabilize your emotional responses.Anger may feel like a fleeting emotion, but when it becomes a constant companion, it's a warning sign your body and mind are under strain. Recognizing anger's role and learning to control it can protect your health and improve your relationships. So next time you feel that familiar heat rising, ask yourself: Is your temper tampering with your health — and what can you do to take back control?
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
Want to be the smartest one in the room? 3 common things that even neurologists avoid for 'healthy brain and sharp memory'
The human brain is a marvel, mysterious, powerful, and at the same time, delicate. Every single thought, memory, and idea springs from this 1.3kg organ. But keeping it sharp doesn't always mean doing more. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Sometimes, the smartest move is knowing what not to do. Dr Baibing Chen, a professor of neurology at the University of Michigan, has seen it all, from memory lapses to full-blown cognitive decline. But when it comes to his own brain health, he shared a few secrets with 'CNBC Make It' that people need to know about. Even small shifts in daily life can have lasting effects on memory, focus, and brain resilience. Here's all we need to know about what this top neurologist avoids, and what can actually be done instead to boost brain power naturally. Overdependence on GPS Dr Chen avoids using GPS too often. Why? A landmark study on London taxi drivers showed that their brains, especially the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory—were larger and more active than usual. Constant navigation without help was building their brain like a muscle. A similar pattern was noticed in professions like ambulance driving, where spatial awareness is constantly used. These individuals had significantly lower Alzheimer's risk. When the brain doesn't need to remember routes or use visual memory, those neural pathways begin to weaken. It's like skipping leg day at the gym—eventually, those muscles fade. Try mentally mapping out short routes, recalling landmarks, or even drawing directions from memory. It's a small habit that can keep the brain agile and alert. Energy drinks Dr Chen warns against these sugar-packed, caffeine-laden drinks. While the instant jolt may feel like productivity, research reveals that excessive consumption may trigger sleep disorders, anxiety, and even seizures in extreme cases. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Some energy drinks contain taurine and B vitamins in amounts that aren't always regulated. These chemicals may interfere with natural brain function, disrupting sleep cycles and causing mental fog in the long run. A quick walk in the sun, a tall glass of lemon water, or even breathing exercises can refresh the brain more sustainably. Natural energy lasts longer—and doesn't come with a neurological price tag. Too many over-the-counter medications Dr Chen has seen cases where frequent use of certain common medicines—like Pepto-Bismol—led to bismuth toxicity, mimicking symptoms of dementia. Zinc overdoses from misguided wellness trends even caused irreversible damage to the spinal cord in some patients. The issue isn't the medicine itself—it's the misuse. Even something as basic as cold remedies, when overused, can interfere with cognitive performance, especially in older individuals. When symptoms are mild, consider rest, hydration, or doctor-approved home remedies first. And always stick to prescribed dosages—not influencer advice. Reclaiming brain health Boosting brain power doesn't always need biohacks or expensive supplements. Neurologists often suggest simple, grounding habits like: Reading something new daily, even for 15 minutes—especially non-fiction or puzzles. Learning unfamiliar routes or languages, which activate underused brain areas. Taking mindful pauses in the day to reflect, breathe, and observe surroundings. These practices help stimulate neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to form new connections. And that's where real cognitive strength lies.
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
6 symptoms of vitamin E deficiency that are not commonly known
Vitamin E, the name sounds familiar, but it slips into the background when compared to more talked-about nutrients like iron, calcium, or vitamin D. Known mostly for its antioxidant powers, vitamin E does a lot more than just help the skin glow or boost immunity. In fact, when the body doesn't get enough of it, it starts to whisper certain signs, not the usual dry skin or weak immunity, but ones that are rarely associated with this silent protector. These symptoms are often brushed aside, misread, or even wrongly treated. It's not about fear — it's about awareness. Sometimes, understanding what's missing in the diet can unlock the mystery behind years of unexplained discomfort. Unsteady movements, especially on smooth floors When vitamin E levels drop, it starts affecting the cerebellum — the part of the brain that controls motor skills and balance. This isn't instant. Over time, a person may start noticing subtle changes in how they walk or how often they lose their footing, especially in slippery areas or when turning quickly. It's not clumsiness — it's a nervous system signal. Strange tingling or prickling in the hands and feet Vitamin E plays a crucial role in protecting nerve endings. Without enough of it, nerves start losing their insulation, much like electric wires with worn-out covers. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Perdagangkan CFD Emas dengan Broker Tepercaya IC Markets Mendaftar Undo The result? Odd sensations like pins and needles, numbness, or even burning feelings in the limbs — especially during rest or at night. Subtle changes in vision clarity A deficiency in vitamin E can damage the light-sensing cells in the retina over time. This doesn't lead to complete blindness but can cause minor vision disruptions — such as struggling to see clearly in dim light or difficulty adjusting when moving between light and dark areas. These signs are slow and subtle but shouldn't be ignored. Image - iStock Constant fatigue without a medical explanation Vitamin E helps maintain healthy red blood cells. When it's in short supply, oxygen transport may be slightly compromised, making muscles and tissues feel tired without doing much. The body keeps asking for rest, not because it's lazy, but because it's running on half its fuel. Cracked or dry lips despite hydration While dry lips are mostly linked to dehydration or weather, consistent cracking despite drinking enough water could be a hint of vitamin E shortage. This vitamin helps maintain cell integrity. When it's missing, even the soft tissues like lips start losing moisture protection. It's a skin message, loud and clear. 7 Most common signs of Vitamin C deficiency Difficulty recovering from small wounds or muscle injuries Vitamin E plays a key role in reducing oxidative stress and promoting tissue repair. When wounds, even minor cuts or muscle soreness from basic activities, take longer to heal than usual, it could point to a lack of this essential nutrient. The delay isn't just external — internally, healing is sluggish too. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
Trying to lose weight? Expert says changing this morning habit can make a big difference
You've tried it all—intermittent fasting, portion control, protein-rich breakfasts, and even going keto. But what if the key to unlocking your weight loss success isn't about what you eat , but what you drink —or don't? According to Professor Franklin Joseph , head of Dr Frank's Weight Loss Clinic , a common and often overlooked morning mistake is quietly derailing thousands of people from reaching their health goals. The culprit? Ignoring hydration. The Morning Mistake That's Slowing You Down In a recent interview with The Sun , Professor Joseph sounded the alarm on a widespread habit: heading straight for coffee or breakfast without drinking water first. 'Most people wake up and go straight to the kitchen or grab a coffee without a second thought,' he said. 'But if you're not preparing your body for the day properly, you're missing a huge opportunity to boost fat burning, improve energy, and control your appetite naturally.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Canada is looking for skilled immigrants - New job opportunities are waiting for you! Canada Immigration Express Apply Now Undo The body, he explained, loses water overnight through breathing and sweating. Skipping hydration in the morning places you in a state of mild dehydration from the moment you start your day. This seemingly small oversight can snowball into a sluggish metabolism, increased sugar cravings, and brain fog. Water First, Food or Coffee Later The fix? Simple, but crucial. Joseph recommends drinking at least 400 to 500ml of water within 30 minutes of waking up. It's not about sipping slowly either—this early hydration helps reset your internal systems, energizes your cells, and helps regulate hunger throughout the day. You Might Also Like: How an extremely busy man lost nearly half his body fat in 3 months without strict diet or long gym sessions For those looking for an added boost, the professor suggests adding a pinch of sea salt or an electrolyte supplement. 'Electrolytes can make a big difference,' he said. 'They support hydration at a cellular level, helping you feel sharper and more energized—especially if you wake up feeling groggy or are physically active.' iStock Dr. Joseph recommends drinking at least 400 to 500ml of water within 30 minutes of waking up. (Representational image: iStock) Your Coffee Might Be Working Against You And while a cup of coffee may seem like your go-to wake-up call, Professor Joseph offers a strong word of caution. 'Caffeine first thing in the morning spikes cortisol levels—the body's main stress hormone—which can interfere with fat loss, increase belly fat storage, and make you feel more anxious.' That doesn't mean you have to quit coffee entirely—but it may be wise to delay it by an hour or two. Hydrating first allows your body to stabilize and start the day on the right metabolic track. Rewire Your Morning, Reclaim Your Goals In the crowded world of weight loss advice, this insight cuts through the noise with refreshing clarity. You don't need a trendy diet plan or a 5 a.m. bootcamp to make meaningful progress—just a commitment to treating hydration as the first step of your day. You Might Also Like: Ranbir Kapoor's stunning weight loss and new look make fans go wild. His fitness trainer reveals secret So the next time you reach for that morning coffee, pause. Grab a glass of water instead. Your metabolism—and your future self—might just thank you.
