How Anger Affects the Brain and Body

Anger affects the brain and body by making your heart beat faster and muscles tense up. Clients who feel angry may also find it difficult to think clearly and stay calm. The How Anger Affects the Brain and Body handout is designed for individuals who need help with anger management. It illustrates how anger triggers the fight-or-flight response, leading to the release of the stress hormone cortisol in the brain.  The handout greatly benefits kids and teens by helping them lower the stress hormone cortisol, which is useful in stressful situations like conflicts and social pressures. Grownups can help a child or student practice any of the tips on the handout. For example, they can plan a fun cooking activity together where they focus on preparing foods low in sugar. To make it more special, let them choose a recipe or a yoga pose they would like to try. *This item is an instant digital download. A link to download your files will be emailed to you once payment is confirmed. Want more resources like this? Check out our full catalog of anger management worksheets and handouts. References: Al Majali, S. A., & Ashour, L. M. (2020). The negative consequences of poor emotion management (anger, anxiety and frustration) on the brain and body. Journal of Talent Development and Excellence, 12(2s), 3410-9. Herrero, N., Gadea, M., Rodríguez-Alarcón, G., Espert, R., & Salvador, A. (2010). What happens when we get angry? Hormonal, cardiovascular and asymmetrical brain responses. Hormones and Behavior, 57(3), 276-283. Khan, A., Bacha, U., & Arshad, A. (2022). Factors Controlling Anger. In The Psychology of Anger (pp. 79-95). Yadav, P. K., Yadav, R. L., & Sapkota, N. K. (2017). Anger: its impact on the human body. Innovare Journal of Health Sciences, 4(5), 3-5.