Why do we lose our shit?

Jun 06, 2023
smiling girl in black and white striped shirt


Have you ever found yourself losing your temper over something that seems trivial? Maybe you yelled at your partner for leaving the toilet seat up, or you got angry with a co-worker for not replying to an email fast enough. We've all been there, but why do we lose our shit over such small things?

The Science Behind Anger

Anger is a natural human emotion that we all experience from time to time. It's a response to a perceived threat or injustice, and it's a way for us to protect ourselves and assert our boundaries. When we get angry, our bodies release adrenaline and other stress hormones that prepare us for fight or flight.

However, sometimes our anger can be disproportionate to the situation at hand. We might overreact to a minor inconvenience or blow things out of proportion. This is often a sign that there are deeper issues at play.

Past Trauma

One reason we might overreact to small things is if we have past trauma that has gone unresolved. For example, if you grew up in a household where your parents were always fighting, you might be more sensitive to conflicts in your adult relationships. Small things can trigger memories of past trauma, leading to an overreaction.

trauma trigger

Stress and Burnout

Another reason we might lose our shit over small things is if we're experiencing high levels of stress or burnout. When we're under a lot of pressure, our emotional reserves are depleted, and it's easier to get upset over small things. This is why it's important to take care of ourselves and manage our stress levels.

burnout

How to Manage Anger

While it's normal to feel angry from time to time, it's important to manage our anger in healthy ways. Here are some tips:

  • Take a deep breath and count to 10 before reacting
  • Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga
  • Exercise regularly to release pent-up tension
  • Talk to a therapist or counselor about unresolved trauma
  • Set boundaries and communicate your needs clearly

Conclusion

So, why do we lose our shit over small things? It's often a sign that there are deeper issues at play, such as past trauma or high levels of stress. By taking care of ourselves and learning healthy ways to manage our emotions, we can avoid overreacting and maintain healthy relationships with those around us.

anger management