EVERYDAY LIVING WORDS Anger affects your health. People who habitually yell and argue create much unhappiness and cause a lot of trouble. Such behaviors also raise blood pressure, trigger heart attacks, and contribute to strokes, ulcers, and digestive problems. And road rage—uncontrolled anger while driving—can be deadly. Besides, getting mad doesn’t solve problems, Here are some expert tips on how to “simmer down"; Be honest. If you have a problem with anger, admit it. Someone else may have “started it,” but that doesn’t excuse your own bad behavior. Ask yourself what mistake you are making. When you're driving, for example, do you follow other cars too closely? Work on it. Decide to change your behavior, and then practice new ways of behaving. Stop attracting trouble by tailgating, for example. Practice saying “Be my guest” if another driver cuts you off or gives you a rude gesture. Responding quietly—instead of blowing your top—alters your breathing pattern and slows the damaging physical effects of stress. Distract yourself. Do you really want to give other people the power to make you upset? Try counting to 10 or taking deep breaths for a minute or two. Don’t set yourself up for anger. Watch your intake of caffeine and alcohol. Caffeine promotes anxiety and irritability. Alcohol slows your thinking and spurs you to act out.