Anger

Anger is a normal part of life, meant to protect us from harm, help us get our needs met, and prevent us from sinking into despair. Sometimes, anger is the appropriate response to misbehavior by others. Managed correctly, and kept in check, anger is an important ally for a healthy adult.

But anger has great risks, perhaps more than any other emotion. Anger can alienate us from people; it can lead us to do things we regret. Anger may arise not due to the present situation, but because the present situation reminds us unconsciously of a past experience. Anger may be a habitual defense against sadness or fear. And anger can lead to aggression and violence, potentially hurting people, including the angry person, and potentially leading to social and even legal problems.

If you have an anger problem, you may know it but not know what to do. Or, you may not know it; the nature of anger may lead angry persons to deny they have any responsibility for the problems to which they contribute. If you find yourself feeling tense and frustrated with yourself and others, if you find yourself unable to enjoy people and life, if you yell often, if you argue with others frequently, if people seem afraid to speak their minds to you or disappoint you, it is possible you have an anger issue.

Anger can be a sign of depression. It can also be a sign of more serious psychological issues. Drugs and alcohol may help mask anger temporarily, but are also likely to make anger worse at times, as drugs and alcohol reduce self-control and tend to increase impulsivity.