Uncontrolled anger is bad for your health. It’s not the anger itself. In fact, anger can energize you to resolve problems. Left unchecked, however, it can cause a series of physical problems such as gastrointestinal problems or increased heart rate and blood pressure that add strain to your heart.

Prolonged anger turned inward can also cause a host of problems. Studies show that suppressing and avoiding conflict can lead to depression, headaches, insomnia, and eating disorders, especially among women.

To channel your anger into productive energy, understand your anger behavior and redefine your habits. Identify the ways you express anger in upsetting situations. Are you overly aggressive? Too passive? Know when to walk away from a situation, and remember that it’s possible to learn new ways to replace old, unhealthy habits.

Anger management is not about stopping you from expressing anger entirely. It's okay to feel angry. The key is to express your anger in an assertive manner without exploding. When you take control of your anger, your overall health may improve, you'll feel better about yourself, and strained relationships may begin to heal.