You Won't Like Me When I'm Angry

You might not guess it at first glance, but my family and I are die-hard comic book enthusiasts. From movies to graphic novels, and even ComicCon escapades, we're all in. And yes, I've been known to rock a Harley Quinn costume on more than a couple of Halloweens.

Our journey into the world of comics began when I tied the knot with my husband. While I'd always dabbled in comics casually, my husband was a bona fide collector, with a particular fondness for Hulk comics. And let me tell you, I've got a soft spot for the big green guy. For the uninitiated, Hulk isn't just any superhero—he's the alter ego of Dr. Bruce Banner. Banner, a brilliant military scientist, was your typical mild-mannered intellect, far removed from any hint of aggression.

But Banner's backstory is far from sunshine and rainbows. According to Marvel lore, he grew up in a household where love was overshadowed by his father's contempt. Dr. Brian Banner's resentment towards his son, coupled with his own demons and alcoholism, created a toxic environment. And when Bruce's father murdered his mother, Bruce's life spiraled into darkness.

Yet, from the ashes of trauma, a hero—and his alter ego—emerged. Banner, despite his troubled past, pursued academia, earning a doctorate in Nuclear Physics and landing a job as a nuclear physicist. It was during a fateful experiment on a military base that the gamma-infused explosion transformed him into the Hulk, a hulking manifestation of his repressed anger and trauma.

So, what's the link between Hulk and anger management?

Some fans and psychologists posit that the Hulk serves as a metaphor for Banner's suppressed rage—a result of his tumultuous upbringing and the trauma he endured. Growing up in an abusive household left him little room to express anger safely, and the fear of losing control or becoming like his father only exacerbated his internal struggles.

Enter "Hulking Out"—a term I'm using to describe the loss of control in moments of destructive anger.

How do you know if you're at risk of "Hulking Out"?

Indicators include behavioral patterns like relying on substances to numb emotions, destroying property when angry, or experiencing sleep disturbances. Emotionally, it might manifest as sudden outbursts disproportionate to the situation or difficulty recognizing and managing feelings. Socially, it could lead to strained relationships or a penchant for conflict and defensiveness. Physically, symptoms range from clenched jaws to trembling muscles or headaches.

While Dr. Banner may be genetically predisposed to Hulk out, for the rest of us, how we express anger is a choice.

If you're grappling with anger issues, there are resources available to help, from insightful articles to mindfulness practices aimed at understanding and managing emotions.

So, whether you're a Hulk aficionado or just someone seeking healthier outlets for anger, remember—emotions are a superpower, and how you wield them is entirely up to you.