Body Signs of Anger
Name one physical sign that your body may show when you are angry.
Faster breathing, tense muscles, sweating, racing heart, feeling hot.
What does it mean to stuff or repress anger?
Holding anger inside and pretending it is not there.
What does it mean to delay anger?
Ignoring angry feelings and hoping they go away.
Name one negative way to express anger.
Yelling, blaming, sarcasm, exaggerating, withdrawal.
What is assertive communication?
Expressing feelings and needs clearly without attacking.
Why does the body release more energy when someone is angry?
To prepare for attack or defense, similar to fear.
What is a common phrase people use when they are repressing anger?
“It does not bother me,” or “It is no big deal.”
What can happen when anger is delayed too long?
A sudden explosion over a small issue.
Why are “you” statements often unhelpful?
They sound like accusations and put people on the defensive.
Name one personal right related to assertiveness.
The right to say no, ask for help, express needs, change your mind.
What health problems can long periods of anger contribute to?
High blood pressure, stomach problems, ulcers, other medical issues.
Why is repressing anger especially common early in recovery?
People may fear conflict or were taught anger is bad.
What does shifting anger mean?
Taking anger out on a safer person or situation.
What is the goal of negative anger expression?
To hurt or control the other person, not to communicate.
What are the two parts of an “I feel” statement?
How I feel and a specific situation.
Why can anger be dangerous even if nothing is said or done?
Because the body stays activated and stress builds up over time.
What usually happens when anger is stuffed for a long time?
It builds up and may come out in unhealthy ways.
Give an example of shifting anger.
Being angry at a boss but yelling at a partner at home.
How can negative expression of anger affect recovery?
It increases conflict, stress, and risk of relapse.
Why are “I feel” statements more effective than “you” statements?
They focus on feelings and facts, not blame.
Why can anger feel overwhelming even when a person is not acting aggressive?
Because anger activates the body’s stress response, increasing heart rate, muscle tension, and energy, even if the person stays quiet.
How can repressing anger increase the risk of relapse in recovery?
Because unexpressed anger builds stress and emotional pressure, which can lead people to seek relief through substances.
What is one reason people may shift anger to a safer person instead of addressing the real source?
They fear consequences, rejection, or conflict with the person they are truly angry with.
Why do exaggerations like “you always” or “you never” make conflicts worse?
Because they feel unfair, trigger defensiveness, and move the focus away from the real issue.
Rewrite this as an “I feel” statement:
“You never listen to me.”
“I feel frustrated when I am talking and feel unheard.”