Anger is a very normal emotion that every human will feel at some point in their life. The amygdala, which is situated within the medial temporal lobe, is the main processing centre for emotion, particularly anxiety, fear, anger, and aggression.
Considering the fact that the amygdala facilitates some of our biggest, rawest emotions, it is only the size of a shelled peanut!
Is Anger Healthy?
Anger is caused by the amygdala triggering the release of stress hormones such as adrenalin and cortisol into the blood stream. The brain diverts blood away from the gut and towards the muscles; heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature and respiration increase, and the skin perspires.
Humans have evolved to feel anger over millions of years. It has certain evolutionary advantages, such as forming part of our instinct to fight off threats, to compete for resources and to enforce social norms. Anger is a normal and healthy emotion, but many people choose to let it become a negative influence on their lives.
The Dark Side of Anger
Anger has a bad reputation, but it is not the emotion itself that causes this; it is how people have chosen to act on it. Although anger influences our physiology, and sometimes we can’t control our emotions, we can always control our behaviour.
Master Your Autonomy
If we’re feeling angry, that’s okay - it’s perfectly normal!
Anger itself isn’t an inherently evil thing. What can be evil is the way some people choose to act on it. If you’re hurting and angry, don’t take it out on those around you. Look within yourself and learn to master your autonomy - don’t let anger take over!
If we can learn to be more kind, patient, and understanding no matter how we feel, we are sure to build a healthier society.
