You probably know all about being hangry, when hunger leads to an irrational rage that doesn’t dissipate until you eat. But you likely haven’t yet heard of the new portmanteau, ‘tangry’.
The term describes acting out when tired, and an estimated nine in 10 of us suffer from bouts of exhaustion-induced anger because we aren’t getting enough quality sleep.
A recent poll of 2,000 adults revealed that people feel angry 22% of the time when fatigued, while three quarters of people have apologised for their ‘tangry’ behaviour.
More than half (51%) said they feel grumpy and irritable due to exhaustion and 42% admitted they have no patience.
Tiredness was also blamed for arguments with a partner (30%), cancelling social plans (26%) and snapping at colleagues (14%).
A further 18% claimed their whole personality changes when they haven’t had enough rest – and fixing the problem takes a fair bit longer than simply grabbing a snack.
The research was commissioned by Bensons for Beds, which has worked with Dr Sophie Bostock to develop a ‘Sleep Calm and Carry On’ programme and help improve the nation’s sleep wellness.
The sleep expert said: ‘Our sleep, wellbeing and behaviour are intimately linked.
‘A lack of sleep can alter the emotional control centres of the brain, making us more sensitive to stress, and reducing self-control. Some people become more impulsive and aggressive.
‘This survey is also a valuable reminder that many of us can feel like a different person when we are sleep deprived and can lash out in ways we later regret.’
According to the study, the most common signs of this include overreacting about small issues, complaining more often than usual, and being impatient.
Further symptoms of someone having a ‘tangry’ episode are crying at the slightest thing (30%) and swearing under their breath about everything (30%).
It all comes down to lack of sleep, with the typical Brit only managing six-and-a-half hours each night, waking up twice because of temperature (51%) and pain or discomfort (50%) disruptions.
Dr Bostock urges people to consider the impact of tiredness on others’ behaviour, and to make rest a priority in order to reduce our own ‘tanger’.
‘If your friend, colleague, or partner is acting out of character, instead of reacting negatively, consider asking them how they are sleeping,’ she says.
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