Because tempers are already frayed, you're reluctant to confront others on their excesses.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
When tempers are frayed or feelings hurt you need to spell out that you are apologising.
The Sun (2010)
Definition of 'temper'
temper
(tempəʳ)Explore 'temper' in the dictionary
variable noun [oft adjective NOUN] [oft inNOUN]
Your temper is the way you are feeling at a particular time. If you are in a good temper, you feel cheerful. If you are in a bad temper, you feel angry and impatient.
Definition of 'fray'
fray
(freɪ)Explore 'fray' in the dictionary
verb
If your nerves or your temper fray, or if something frays them, you become nervous or easily annoyed because of mental strain and anxiety.