Anger-Memory Link

Did you know there is a link between anger and memory? First, anger is one of the protective emotions (the other two being fear and sadness) and is critically important. Anger is designed to tell you that you have been injured, think you have been mistreated, or faced with problems that prevent you from getting what you need or want or from attaining your personal goals. Once alerted, you can use the information to help you better manage your life and take appropriate action as needed. Anger is not designed to be “hung onto,” however, and many reasons to avoid doing just that. Unmanaged anger can increase your risk for heart disease and ulcers—and alter brain chemicals that can decrease serotonin levels and increase aggressive behaviors. Plus life is unpredictable, and the person you’re angry with may not be around tomorrow. Figure out what anger is trying to bring to your attention and take appropriate action; then let the anger go—as soon as possible—to avoid a negative impact on your brain’s memory functions. Studies have shown that the average adult experiences anger about once a day and becomes annoyed about three times a day—and that going to bed mad is a bad idea. More tomorrow.