Most people feel angry sometimes. Anger is a fundamental emotion and a normal human response to particular life experiences or situations that can be perceived as threatening, deceitful and frustrating.
Expressing anger can be a healthy way to relieve emotional pressure, tension and built-up energy. When anger is used constructively, it can help us to set boundaries with others, protect ourselves and assert our needs without hurting others around us. Excessive anger, on the other hand, can become destructive and impact significantly on people’s relationships, careers, quality of life and overall well-being. Additionally, excessive anger might at times suggest that someone is struggling with complex emotional issues or it can be a symptom of ongoing mental health difficulties.
There is a thin line between recognising anger and behaving aggressively. Losing control of anger may lead to aggressive behaviour and can be harmful for everyone involved. Some people can become aggressive not only towards others (e.g., fighting) but also take it out on themselves (e.g., self-harming).
When to seek Anger Management Therapy
Like all emotions, anger can affect our body, our mind and our behaviour. If you struggle with anger issues, you are likely to experience some or all of the following symptoms and could benefit from anger management issues counselling:
Physical symptoms of poor anger management
- Racing heart
- Muscular tension
- Fist clenching
- Tight chest
- Elevated body temperature
Mental symptoms of poor anger management
- Tension and/or nervousness
- Inability to relax
- Irritability
- Feeling humiliated
- Feeling resentful
Changes in behaviour
- A persistent desire to lash out physically or verbally
- Breaking things
- Constant arguing
- Explosive outbursts
- Losing your temper easily
- Self-harming
- Shouting
- Starting fights
- Sulking
Anger Management Therapy can help you
Anger management counselling will help you explore your relationship with anger, learning to take responsibility for it and will support you to express it in a safe and constructive manner.
Dr Zach is a Chartered Psychologist trained in CBT, EMDR and other therapies, offering anger management counselling in London, as well as online.