Exploring how people cope with rising seasonal stress
Searching for calm in a tense season
As the festive rush picks up, stress can surge from every direction. Long queues, gridlocked roads and the pressure of family gatherings often leave people feeling on edge. With tensions so high, the question becomes clear: what is the healthiest way to release anger and regain a sense of balance
A firsthand look inside a rage room
Nicola Davis investigates the appeal of smashing objects for stress release
To explore this, Ian Sample speaks with Nicola Davis, who recently stepped into a rage room to experience an intense style of emotional release. Armed with protective gear and a safe space to swing away at old items, she examined whether channelling fury through physical destruction truly offers relief.
What the science says about venting
Ian also turns to Brad Bushman, professor of mass communication and psychology at Ohio State University, for expert insight. Brad has spent years studying anger and aggression, and his findings raise an important point: does venting actually help or can it fuel even more frustration
The search for healthier alternatives
Calmer activities like yoga may offer a more effective route to easing anger
As the discussion unfolds, the deeper issue becomes clear. While smashing items may feel satisfying in the moment, other techniques such as slow breathing or yoga may help more in the long run. The heart of the conversation asks a simple but crucial question: when anger spikes, what method truly brings peace
