ANGER MANAGEMENT
Anger isn’t always unhealthy.
Anger is a common human emotion that can be beneficial. For example, anger signals to us that there is a problem that requires exploration or action. Anger can become unhealthy when it is intense, frequent, long-lasting, and difficult to manage. When untreated, anger can contribute to aggression and violence, as well as social consequences such as issues related to school, work, relationships, finances, and the law.
Anger triggers can include:
- A specific event (such as being fired from a job or witnessing an injustice)
- An object (such as a suitcase with a broken wheel in an airport)
- Personal thoughts or memories (such as ruminating about criticisms received while growing up)
- Personal emotions (such as loss or rejection)
- Personal behaviors/qualities (such as forgetting an important event for a loved one)
Anger can be directed toward self, others, or an external object. Episodes of anger are least likely to be directed toward an object and most likely to be directed toward someone that we know, like, or love.
The warning signs of anger:
- Racing heart rate
- Muscle tension
- Headache
- Sweating or shaking
- Jaw clenching or teeth grinding
- Stomachache
- Feeling hot in the face and neck
- Fast breathing
- Raised voice, yelling, or screaming
- Argumentative
- Pacing
- Pounding or banging on things
- Clenched fists
- Scowl or angry face
- “Shutting down” and becoming quiet
- Feeling jealous or insecure
- Feeling mistreated
- Irritability or frustration
- Feeling overwhelmed or stressed
- Depression or sadness
- Crying
- Resentment
- Guilt
- Anxiety
- Rage
- Mind goes blank
- Racing thoughts about the problem
- Thoughts about being threatened
- Thoughts about being devalued
- Thoughts about hurting someone
- Thoughts about breaking something
- Wanting to show force or teach someone a lesson
Anger impacts physical and mental health.
Individuals with chronic anger may experience physical and mental health issues. Physical issues can include headaches, stomach issues, difficulty with sleep, and greater risk for health issues (such as heart attacks and stroke). Mental health issues can include depression, anxiety, substance use issues, self-harm, and low self-esteem. High levels of anger are also associated with suicidal ideation.
Learn how to control your anger before it controls you.
Counseling and therapy at Wellness Grove…
Our in-person (outpatient) counseling services are offered in Canton OH (near Akron, North Canton, and Massillon). We also offer telemental health sessions to all Ohio residents.
Wellness Grove
