Angry Young Hearts

We all know that stress and anger can cause health problems in adults. A new study suggests kids who are hostile can develop health problems, too.

Seven-year-old Jamal has a problem controlling his temper. However, there may be more trouble than meets the eye. A new study by the University of Pittsburgh Medical School finds kids and teens that seem angry often have high blood pressure and strain on their hearts.

A psychologist says, “The mind really does affect the body as well as the body affecting the mind.”

Dr. says children need help dealing with anger early on. When you have anger that becomes rageful and out of control and you don’t intervene early on with certain limits and other ways of handling it, children then become reinforced.

Experts say parents should never dismiss their kids angry outbursts as “just a phase.” Dr. says this pattern can begin as early as infancy. Matthew, a holistic health coordinator, helps kids release anger just by making a fist.

Matthew says, “The squeezing and releasing is a child’s version of a relaxing response exercise, and that’s a great way of getting a lot of the anger out very, very quickly.”

The National Network for Child Care suggests kids do something physical such as punch a pillow, stomp their feet or play with play dough. Parents can also help them make up words to a song to express their feelings.

For Jamal and others like him, learning to channel his anger while he’s young will likely make him a happier and healthier adult.

Experts say angry children seldom develop in isolation. Your child’s anger maybe a warning sign that family counseling is needed.