CAN THIS RESPONSE BE CONTROLLED?
Fortunately, there's a "brake" of sorts in our brains that counteracts the amygdala. In a study done by Harvard Medical School associate professor Darin Dougherty, he observed that during angry memories, "the amygdala fired" in healthy individuals. However, he also observed that "At the same time, a part of the orbital frontal cortex, just above the eyes, also engaged, putting the brakes on emotion" (HMS). What is especially intriguing about this study is the exploration of the link between depression and angry outbursts because of this 'brake'. In a later study, Dougherty found that in anger attacks, this brake failed to activate in depressed people, and amygdala activity even increased.
WHAT IS THE AMYGDALA?
In the brain lies a tiny, almond-shaped structure that interprets stressful or frightening situations, which then sends out signals to the rest of the brain. This means, not only does it cause fear and anxiety, but also aggressive responses towards those dangers—what we see as anger. During moments that require hostile behavior, the amygdala activates and norepinephrine—a neurotransmitter closely linked to the fight-or-flight response—is released. Anger and fear are seen as two sides of the same coin, meant to keep us stressed and alive through the fight-or-flight response.
Understanding the mechanics behind anger and anger management can help remove the stigma surrounding anger attacks and panic attacks. By bringing awareness to the scientific aspects behind these outbursts, it can help reinforce the idea that these attacks aren't a result of something inherently wrong with the person, but an unintended consequence of a mental disorder.
SO WHAT?
ANGER
HOW THE AMYGDALA GETS ON YOUR NERVES
The familiar rush of burning rage builds up in the stomach, a universal feeling. However, the source of this feeling ties it closely to fear.
