Driving while angry is such a big problem contributing to a car accident in California that the DMV has issued an official safety tip to remind drivers to not get behind the wheel while they’re upset. If you or someone you care about has a problem controlling their emotions when they’re on the road, the following information may be able to help.
Understanding Anger
Anger is one of our most powerful emotions. When left unchecked, it can have lead to fights, abuse, assault, self-harm and aggressive or inattentive driving. Anger affects more than just your mind. If you’ve ever been incredibly angry, you’ve probably felt the rush of adrenaline and cortisol that often accompanies this emotion. As the body’s “fight or flight” mechanism kicks in, the brain diverts blood to your muscles, your blood pressure climbs, your heart races, you breathe harder, your temperature rises and your mind focuses on the source of your anger.
Stress Increases Your Chances of Feeling Angry
If you’re under a lot of stress, you’re more likely to feel angry. However, a number of studies have shown that getting plenty of exercise can boost your mood and ease your stress levels. It’s thought that exercise works in two complementary ways by burning up stress chemicals while increasing your level of endorphins, catecholamines and other mood-regulating neurotransmitters.
A Solution to the Problem
When you drive angry, it’s easy to let your emotions get the best of you, but the consequences can be steep. Tunnel vision, the inability to think clearly and a trembling body not only endanger your own safety, but the welfare of everyone else on the road. To help solve the problem of angry driving, a group of Japanese inventors have developed a device that monitors the driver’s condition in an attempt to sense anger or anxiety. If the device determines the driver is having this type of problem, it tries to calm them down using music or aromatherapy.
Stress Management Tips
Instead of waiting for a high-tech device, here are some tips that anyone can use to manage their anger in a healthy way:
- Don’t drive while you’re angry.
- Walk away from any situation that makes you angry until you can cool down.
- Learn to recognize your anger and accept this emotion as normal.
- Think about why you’re angry.
- Identify specific problems and come up with various solutions.
- Get plenty of exercise. Go for a run when you begin to feel angry.
Long-Term Anger Management
Uncontrolled anger can have a negative impact on more than just your driving. If this emotion is hurting your relationships or your career, consider making some long-term changes. Although it can take time to modify the way you express anger, the final results will be well worth your effort. Here are some suggestions:
- Keep a record of your outbursts to help you understand why and how you feel angry.
- Take a conflict resolution class.
- Learn some relaxation techniques.
- Start an exercise program.
- See a therapist or counselor to resolve any past issues.
By keeping your emotions in control and staying off the road when you can’t, you’ll be a better driver and a happier person!
Source: http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/anger_how_it_affects_people?open