Bigg Boss 17 is done and dusted, and much to everyone’s disappointment and a select few’s satisfaction, the renowned media titled ‘women-beater’ Abhishek Kumar secured the second position. If you have closely followed the reality show, you may be familiar with Kumar’s feisty, ruthless, and unforgiving persona, and the constant claims that he used to assault his ex-girlfriend, Udaariyan co-actor, and fellow Bigg Boss 17 contestant Isha Malviya.
Nobody was spared from his barrage of insults, not even his closest allies, and he often justified this behaviour with his now famous catchphrase- Main aisa hi hoon (that’s just how I am)! Often expressing his opinions at the top of his voice, quite literally spitting fire (the keyword here is spit), with vocal cords and eardrum-disabling rants that often made me skip the entire scene, Kumar, rightly so, earned the title of ‘Thukda (one who spits)’ inside the house.
Time and again it was brought up that he has sought psychiatric help for his extreme anger issues and depression that left him paralysed on the bed for months. This has often been contested by Malviya and her current boyfriend Samarth Jurel, along with other Bigg Boss associates including the host Salman Khan, who has called his behaviour a sham, a complete farce.
Well, Bigg Boss is over now. Much to everyone’s dismay or joy, Kumar and other problematic characters of the show (I wish I had the perfect Shayari to describe these ‘Pavitra Rishtas’) are somebody else’s problem now. However, Kumar’s journey does open up the platform for a topic that deserves attention- downfalls of and how to deal with extreme anger issues.
Navigating the Storm Within- Understanding and Managing Anger Issues
All of us have had our struggle against anger and temper. Salman Khan once beautifully reiterated the difference between the two, stating that there is a difference between anger and temper- Anger fuels your fire while temper, which is another word for ‘anger issues’ ruins your life.
While anger is a natural response to certain situations, unchecked anger can lead to various downfalls, affecting relationships, mental health, and overall well-being. According to a study published in the Journal of Medicine and Life, anger issues run the risk of developing coronary artery diseases, bulimia, and type-2 diabetes.
Here is a detailed description of the health detriments of unchecked anger issues:
- Strained Relationships: Frequent outbursts of uncontrolled anger often erode trust and create an environment of tension, resulting in strained relationships with friends, family, and colleagues.
- Health Implications: Chronic anger has been linked to various health issues, including high blood pressure, heart problems, and a weakened immune system. The physiological impact of sustained anger can take a toll on overall health.
- Impaired Decision-Making: Anger can cloud judgment and impair decision-making abilities. Reacting impulsively in the heat of the moment can lead to regrettable choices and long-term consequences.
- Negative Impact on Mental Health: Persistent anger can contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. It creates a cycle where unresolved anger feeds into negative thought patterns, exacerbating existing mental health challenges.
Tips for Managing Anger Issues
If you have recognised that your anger has given way to a bad temperament, and anyone or anything can easily trigger you, it is time for an intervention. The following practices may help you:
- Identify Triggers: Recognising the specific situations or circumstances that trigger your anger is the first step toward effective management. Whether it's stress, frustration, or feeling unappreciated, understanding the root cause helps in developing targeted coping strategies.
- Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing exercises and meditation can provide a moment of pause, allowing individuals to respond thoughtfully rather than reacting impulsively.
- Communication is Key: Expressing anger healthily involves clear and assertive communication. Avoid aggressive language and personal attacks. Instead, focus on expressing feelings and needs constructively.
- Seek Professional Help: If anger issues persist and significantly impact daily life, seeking the help of a mental health professional is invaluable.
- Healthy Outlets for Expression: Channeling anger into physical activities or creative outlets can be therapeutic. Engaging in regular exercise, writing, or art can provide a constructive way to release pent-up emotions.
- Develop Problem-Solving Skills: Instead of dwelling on the anger itself, shift focus towards finding solutions to the underlying issues. Developing effective problem-solving skills helps in addressing root causes and preventing recurring anger.
Being able to manage your anger effectively requires self-awareness, patience, and a commitment to personal growth. By acknowledging the downfalls associated with anger issues and implementing practical strategies for control, one can pave the way for healthier relationships, improved mental well-being, and a more balanced life. Remember, anger is a powerful emotion, but with the right tools, it can be harnessed positively.