Anger, Depression and Health

They are all interconnected.

chronic anger

Psychological stress and anger are also major contributors to cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Constant anger triggers the sympathetic nervous system and causes the body to pump stress hormones, adrenaline, and cortisol. They are churning hormones that prepare the body for 'fight or flight' mode, elevating heart rate and blood pressure. When chronic anger becomes an individual's response to everyday stressors, the heart will work in overdrive, which, down the line, literally leads to wear and tear on the cardiovascular system because of sustained high blood pressure and heart rate.

The continuous stimulation of these biological responses triggers the onset of hypertension, which is a significant contributor to heart disease and stroke. The accumulation of arterial plaques increases the incidence of atherosclerosis because of the lingering presence of heightened cortisol and adrenaline levels in the system.

In addition, many other health ills related to anger have manifested themselves in those who think the emotion is normal. This makes our immune cells less effective in fighting infections and diseases, and we can even be more susceptible to illnesses like colds and flu if we already have a weaker immune system. Stress hormones can interfere with the healthy functioning of immune cells. Intense anger with the related stress causes increased levels of cortisol and adrenalin, which can be very damaging and lead to other related health problems, such as digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, and acid reflux.

More than that, anger affects mental health. Chronic anger leads to anxiety and depression. What is likely happening is that rage and these mental health issues have a reciprocal relationship. Linked often with increased anxiety and depression, outbreaks of anger also increase the likelihood of these conditions.

We live in a highly competitive society where success and wealth are highly valued. This sets up a chase for more money and material possessions. The pressure to succeed is like an addictive drug. The result of this vicious cycle is often a psychiatric or health crisis.

Depression and anger are complicated feelings. Exploring the association between depression and anger provides insight into the emotional experience of people struggling with these feelings and can help with effective support and treatment.

Depression is characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness, inactivity, lethargy, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in or pleasure from all usual activities. One reason that depression can be so alienating is that it causes feelings of emptiness and hopelessness. Anger is often connected to depression and anxiety.

Anger, depression, anxiety, and physical health are interconnected and must be addressed before a major physical and mental catastrophe occurs.

There are many things people can do to reduce the mental and physical dangers discussed above. Among these are regular physical exercise, healthy eating, and guided meditation. It is also important to avoid drinking and drug abuse, which are often attempts at self-medication.

It is also important to remember that psychotherapy is enormously helpful. Various psychotherapeutic methods are available, each of which is valuable, and the choice of one will depend upon the issues that need to be addressed. Psychotherapies, including medication, will be discussed in a future blog post.