Anger: benefit or harm? Why we need it

Have you noticed irritation towards someone who interrupts you during something important? The point of any restriction is an obstacle on the way to a goal, and the very sense of unfreedom gives rise to anger. Pain, hunger, fatigue and stress also make us irritable.

Anger is one of the fundamental, innate emotions. In evolution it served a protective function: it increased strength and confidence. Today we mostly defend ourselves psychologically — and anger helps us stand up for our rights and those of our loved ones.

What can trigger anger

• Actions — thoughtless, imposed or unfair acts of others;
• Thoughts — of deception, betrayal, humiliation, injustice;
• Feelings — of being deceived, disappointment, hurt.

This doesn't mean you should be aggressive. Research shows that physical aggression follows an offence only in a small fraction of cases, while a free and clarified expression of anger often strengthens relationships and helps people know each other better.

What happens when anger is suppressed

Chronically suppressed anger turns into hostility, feeds hidden aggression (sarcasm, “talking behind someone's back”) and raises the risk of psychosomatic illness. In a marriage, long-term concealment of anger leads to estrangement.

What to do with anger

1. an open discussion of accumulated issues;
2. team or active sports;
3. sublimation through creativity;
4. psychotherapy.

Don't wait for unexpressed anger to spoil your relationships. Allow yourself to feel angry — but keep enough control over yourself.