Anger Management

It is estimated that nearly 8% of the United States population experiences inappropriate, intense, and poorly controlled anger (Okuda, et. al., 2016). It is especially more common in men and in younger adults. Some potential factors that were found to be contributors to anger include parental factors as well as childhood and adulthood adverse events. In addition, there are also strong associations of anger with bipolar disorder, drug dependence, psychotic disorders, borderline personality disorder, and schizotypal personality disorder.

What is an Anger Problem?

Although anger is a very normal, and usually healthy emotion that as individuals we’ve all experienced, for some, anger can become problematic and destructive. An individual who has an anger problem may notice difficulties at work, school, experience legal and health issues, and have problems in relationships with others.

How do you Treat and Anger Problem?

While we would not like to eliminate anger, as it can be a useful and productive emotion in helping us navigate our decisions, learning how to better manage and communicate anger is a necessary skill. There are a variety of strategies that can help an individual both reduce and manage their anger in healthy ways (American Psychological Association). These include:

• Relaxation
• Cognitive Restructuring or “thinking about things differently”
• Problem Solving
• Learning Communication Skills
• Using humor
• Changing your environment

OakHeart has a therapist specifically trained in working with individuals who struggle with controlling their anger. For questions or to schedule an appointment, please call 630-570-0050.

Resources

Prevalence and Correlations of Anger in the Community
Controlling Anger

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