Anger is a natural emotion that we all experience at some point in our lives. However, it can be unsettling when you start trembling or shaking when angry. It’s a reaction that some people experience when their emotions are running high. Let’s explore the reasons behind shaking when angry, learn if it’s a normal response, how to stop shaking and more.

Is it Normal for Hands to Shake When Angry?

It is common for people to experience shaking hands or tremors when they are angry or upset. The shaking or trembling can be a physiological response to intense emotions. When you are experiencing emotions such as anger or anxiety, your body’s ‘fight or flight’ response gets activated. As a result, this response increases the production of adrenaline and cortisol in your body. Both adrenaline and cortisol can cause your hands or other body parts to shake.

However, it is important to note that not everyone experiences this reaction when they are angry. Some people might even feel their hands get cold and clammy. So, the answer to the question, “Is it normal to shake when angry?” is yes, it is a common physical response, but not everyone experiences it the same way.

What is it Called When You Shake From Anger?

The medical term for shaking or trembling when emotional is psychogenic or psychological tremors. These kinds of tremors are usually related to stress, anxiety, or other emotional disorders, and can affect different parts of the body, including the hands, legs, or even the face. In some cases, these tremors can be severe enough to interfere with daily activities.

Why Do I Jittering When I Get Angry?

Shaking or trembling when angry can happen for several reasons. The most common causes are:

  • Adrenaline rush: When your body is under stress, your adrenal glands produce adrenaline, which prepares your body to ‘fight or flight’. The increased adrenaline can cause shaking hands and other symptoms like heart palpitations, sweating or nausea.
  • Anxiety: Anxiety is a mental disorder that can cause excessive worry or fear. People with anxiety can experience hand tremors, muscle tension, and other physical symptoms when exposed to stressors, including anger.
  • Frustration: Frustration is another emotion that can contribute to shaking when angry. When you are frustrated, you might feel helpless, and this can make your body react by increasing adrenaline levels, leading to physical symptoms like shaking and trembling.

How Do I Stop Shaking When Angry?

There are several ways to stop shaking when angry:

  • Breathing exercises: Deep breathing exercises can help to reduce anxiety and the physical symptoms that come with it. Close your eyes and inhale deeply through your nose for about four seconds, then exhale through your mouth for about six seconds. Repeat several times until you feel calmer.
  • Progressive muscle relaxation: Progressive muscle relaxation is a technique that involves tensing and then releasing different muscle groups throughout your body. Start from your toes and work your way up to your head. This technique can help to reduce tension and physical symptoms related to anger.
  • Get help: If your anger issues are affecting your life or your relationships, consider reaching out to a mental health professional. They can help you develop coping strategies and techniques to manage your anger and emotions better.

“When angry, count to ten before you speak. If very angry, count to one hundred.”

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