Has someone said you have anger issues? Do you find your mood going from zero to 100 the second people say something hurtful, or do you feel guilty? Does it feel like your efforts and opinions don’t matter?
Nothing is wrong with being angry because anger is a normal human emotion. That being said, people may have different ways of expressing anger. Some people get angry at the littlest thing. Others bottle up their emotion, and when something triggers a reaction, they lose their temper.
But, when anger pairs with psychological disorders, it can have a serious impact on the quality of life.
To help you understand the inner workings of the human mind, we’ve compiled a quick guide on the various types of anger disorders. Once you pinpoint the causes and symptoms, you can find better ways to cope with your problems.
Let’s jump right in.
What Do Anger Issues Mean?
Anger is a basic negative emotion. It pushes you to react to any kind of wrong or injustice. But, how you express or manifest it matters.
Based on 2010 research, different types of anger disorders can be bad for mental and physical health. Intense and inappropriate anger can harm you, other people, and property. It can feel like you have little to no control over your life.
According to a recent poll, a shocking 84% of participants stated that people in the United States are much angrier today compared to a generation ago.
Another survey suggests that 80% of drivers got involved in road rage incidents, while 25% may have instigated it.
Further data shows that 65% of office workers have dealt with office rage. Many have lost their temper due to different circumstances like bullying, disrespect, or humiliation.
What Could Lead to Anger Issues?
“Why am I always angry and irritated for no reason?” It is a common question for anyone who deals with anger outbursts.
Many things can make you angry, such as money problems, conflicts at home, stress at work, etc.
For others, anger can be triggered by an underlying disorder, such as depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Here is a quick look at some of the underlying causes.
1. Depression
Anger and depression go hand in hand.
Based on studies, people with depression frequently experience irritability, hostility, and anger. Depressed patients who also have anger attacks are a lot more hostile and anxious.
However, people suffering from depression may manifest anger differently. You may feel like a shadow of your former self, hopeless, and punished for no reason.
Research shows that anger in depressed patients can lead to feelings of envy and blame, which can damage relationships. It can also make people angry at themselves for being unable to find happiness.
2. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
OCD is frequently associated with anger. But, that connection is relatively complicated.
Anger in OCD can occur due to symptoms of general distress or comorbid depression. When you are unable to manage your OCD symptoms, have anger and depression, and set extremely high standards for yourself, you will feel angry more often.
3. Alcohol abuse
Studies indicate that when you drink too much alcohol, you can be more aggressive. Of course, that doesn’t apply to everyone, but it can happen to anyone.
Thousands of people have been victims of intoxicated drivers. Almost 70% of violent alcohol-related incidents happen at home. Further, 20% of these incidents suggest that people fight with weapons, feet, or fists.
4. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
People with ADHD have a difficult time regulating emotions. This may mean that anger itself can overwhelm them.
In some cases, when patients wait too long to take their pill, they can become angry for no reason. There are many cases where patients claim to see completely “red” when they get rage attacks.
Also, ADHD patients may suffer sensitivity to light or sudden sound. These can overwhelm them and can make them very angry or irritable.
5. Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)
ODD is a disruptive behavior disorder in children. It makes it difficult for them to manage their behaviors and emotions.
The prevalence of ODD varies from 2% to 11%.
Those affected experience a pattern of irritability, defiance, and anger. They can be difficult and spiteful toward others on purpose.
6. Bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder can cause strange bouts of anger.
The problem with bipolar disease is that this mental disorder is erratic. There are unexpected and extreme swings of emotions. From the lows of depression to being happy and deliriously high. It’s no wonder why many bipolar patients feel irritable and angry.
When there is a manic episode, patients can get distressed, reckless, and impulsive.
7. Intermittent explosive disorder (IED)
IED is a condition that makes people struggle to keep their sudden bursts of anger in check.
There can be signs of hostility, repeated anger outbursts, and impulsiveness.
Episodes are short and subside after less than half an hour. But, they come out of the blue, can cause tantrums and conflicts, and can make a person throw things out of frustration.
8. Grief
Anxiety and anger are one thing. But grief and anger are something entirely different.
Grief can bring out another side of you that you didn’t even know existed. You can lash out at those around you for something that may or may not be related to the tragedy.
Your anger may be accompanied by numbness, sadness, fear, loneliness, and shock.
How Does Anger Affect People? What Can You Expect?
The anger issues symptoms can be physical and emotional. Even though they are completely normal, they can take a toll on your health over time.
1. Physical Signs of Anger
These may include:
- Weakness in the legs
- Feeling overheated or sweaty
- Quickened heart rate
- Tension or pain in the eyes or head
- Tightness in the chest
- A sensation of churning or unease in the stomach
- Trembling or shaking
- Teeth grinding
- Dizziness
- Urge to use the toilet
- Muscle tension
2. Emotional Signs of Anger
These may include:
- Seeing red (like a “red mist” takes control of you)
- Rage
- Irritability
- Stress
- Frustration
- Resentment
The Different Types of Anger Disorders
Anger is pretty diverse — it shows up in many forms, and not all types of anger disorders look the same. It can be more obvious (outward), internal (inward), and indirect (passive).
1. Outward
Outward anger is more noticeable. You will be using things or verbally attacking those who did you wrong.
You may throw the nearest object, shout, swear, slam doors, or turn to violence.
2. Inward
When the anger turns inward, it stays within you.
You may withdraw from the outside world and get mad at yourself. You start to deny yourself of things you enjoy or tell yourself you are not good enough.
With this type of anger and depression, you can feel drained.
3. Passive
Passive anger makes you address your aggression indirectly.
You don’t express yourself clearly. Instead, you pout or act moody or sullen. You may gossip, roll your eyes, use sarcasm, or do things in a way that would punish those who’ve wronged you.
In a romantic relationship, anxiety and anger can make you feel distant, especially if you give them the silent treatment.
How to Manage Anger Issues?
If you struggle with anger and depression, it’s best to see a mental health expert. They can help you heal through therapies and find appropriate coping mechanisms to control the symptoms.
The treatment will vary based on the types of anger disorders you have. Overall, you may benefit from:
- Prescription medication
- Behavioral therapy
- Classes for anger management
- Relaxation techniques
- Exercises for controlling anger
- Support groups
If you want to take a more holistic approach, you might want to give the NUU3 Keep Calm Gummies a try. This is a completely natural supplement that’s both delicious and useful for stress relief. The formula calms the mind without you having to worry about possible side effects.
FAQs
Can anger issues be cured?
You can’t technically cure them, but you can control their intensity and how they affect your everyday life. One way is to practice patience and find a treatment that can mitigate physiological arousal, like behavioral therapy.
Is anger a form of mental illness?
Not really. Experts do not classify anger alone as a mental disorder. But, anger can be connected with notable mental health conditions, such as oppositional defiant disorder, bipolar disorder, or ADHD. It can be a symptom of these psychological disorders.
So, if you are regularly aggressive, whether verbally or physically, consult with a mental health specialist. They can help you get to the core of the problem.
Can exercise reduce anger?
According to recent studies[13], regular physical activity can reduce anger outbursts and help people take control of their emotions.
When you work out, your heart beats faster, and you take quicker, shallower breaths. After exercising, your body naturally slows your breathing to a usual pace. This reaction is a lot like what your body does to calm down when you're angry.
Final Thoughts
Any unresolved anger can be a problem for you and those around you. If you leave it to fester, it can turn into displaced anger and have serious consequences. Work with a specialist to find what makes you feel or react that way.
Once you understand the symptoms and recognize the triggers, you can control yourself and handle that anger.
