Q&A with Dr. Jen: Why am I so angry after a brain injury?

 It’s me this week! I’ve received this question so many times while working with my courageous survivors, and recently a listener. Dr. Jen…why am I so angry? How do I stop feeling so pissed off!!

 I talk about this and my journey to understand this complicated emotion and in the words of Berne Brown…a powerful catalyst but a life-sucking companion.  

Things discussed:

• Berne Brown’s research and her new book Atlas of the Heart. You can find links to all her books https://brenebrown.com/
• I also talked about the work of the Gottman’s specifically regarding physiology and increase heart rate. Here’s a great blog about this concept on the website https://www.gottman.com/blog/weekend-homework-assignment-physiological-self-soothing/. 
• My email course which discussed the nervous system and how it impacts our stress response. 
• One of my favorite resources for a book about anger is Andrea Brandt’s mindful anger book. Her book and website are here: https://abrandtherapy.com/

Takeaways

Takeaway #1

It’s ok to be angry! But don’t stay there. Find ways to use it as a catalyst as it is a life-sucking companion. 

Takeaway #2

Work through your nervous system. There are probably great physiological reasons why you are feeling anger.  Check out my free email course below, I talk about that a bunch there! 

Takeaway #3

Be mindful of your physiological state. Wearable technology has come a long way! Use measures of physiology as guides to rest and take a break when you are triggered or angry. 

More from Jen

My email course, it’s free! https://view.flodesk.com/pages/606e5015d0ab2d0103020f8a