Anger

Anger is an intense emotional reaction involving an uncomfortable and hostile response to a perceived provocation, hurt or threat. Most people equate anger with "bad" or "mean", which it can be if it’s chronic or habitual. But in fact, anger is a normal emotional response which serves an important purpose. Anger is a sort of evolutionary defense mechanism designed to protect us from something. It’s the “fight” in fight or flight. It tends to increase our adrenalin, focus our attention and often leads to quick action, and it can be a good thing as long as it is recognized, understood and ultimately results in a constructive outcome. Anger can occur when someone feels their personal boundaries are (or might be) violated. For some people, it can even be a default coping mechanism. Anger also impacts the physical body. An angry person will experience certain physical conditions including; increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, increased levels of adrenaline and noradrenaline. Underlying anger are always other issues - usually fear, hurt or sadness.