Why does it feel so uncomfortable when I'm holding in anger but can't vent it, and what should I do about it?
Nov 14, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, feeling emotionally distressed with an inability to vent one's emotions may be caused by factors such as emotional suppression, autonomic nervous system dysfunction, anxiety disorder, depression, or hyperthyroidism. Emotional regulation requires proactive effort, and developing hobbies in daily life can help divert attention. If the feeling of stuffiness persists for more than two weeks, or if sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, or even thoughts of self-harm occur,
Generally, feeling emotionally distressed with an inability to vent frustration may be caused by emotional suppression, autonomic nervous system dysfunction, anxiety disorder, depression, hyperthyroidism, and other conditions. Specific explanations are as follows:
1. Emotional Suppression
When encountering conflict or injustice, deliberately suppressing emotions without expression prevents psychological energy from being released, leading to a sensation of stuffiness or suffocation. Talking to someone trustworthy, engaging in physical exercise, shouting, or journaling can help release these emotions and prevent long-term buildup.
2. Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction
Emotional stress can disrupt the balance of the autonomic nervous system, causing overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system and resulting in physical symptoms such as chest tightness and breathlessness, which further intensify feelings of emotional oppression. Maintaining regular sleep patterns and avoiding late nights, practicing deep breathing or meditation to regulate nervous system function, and engaging in gentle exercises like yoga are recommended.
3. Anxiety Disorder
An imbalance of neurotransmitters leads to persistent anxiety. Patients often feel inner restlessness that is difficult to express, accompanied by palpitations and agitation. Under medical supervision, medications such as sertraline hydrochloride tablets, escitalopram oxalate tablets, or fluvoxamine maleate tablets may be prescribed, along with professional psychological counseling.
4. Depression
Characterized by low mood and lack of motivation, individuals may feel emotionally numb and stifled, even when upset, due to a lack of energy to express their feelings. Under medical guidance, medications such as fluoxetine hydrochloride tablets, paroxetine hydrochloride tablets, or mirtazapine tablets may be used, alongside consistent participation in social activities to improve overall condition.
5. Hyperthyroidism
Excessive secretion of thyroid hormones accelerates metabolism and increases sympathetic nervous system activity, making patients prone to irritability and anger that are difficult to manage, along with symptoms such as excessive sweating and palpitations. Under medical supervision, medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, or propranolol hydrochloride tablets may be prescribed, with regular monitoring of thyroid function.
Active efforts are essential for emotional regulation. Developing hobbies and interests in daily life can help divert attention. If feelings of emotional congestion persist for more than two weeks, or if sleep disturbances, appetite changes, or even thoughts of self-harm occur, prompt medical consultation is necessary—early intervention enables faster restoration of emotional balance.
