Anger is a common reaction to stress or when life feels beyond your control. It is common for anger to feel like it comes out of nowhere, overpowering your mood. Almost all of us experience anger at one time or another. Some of us are more apt to express it outwardly, while others tend to suppress their anger and keep it inside.
When is anger a problem? According to the American Psychological Association (APA), anger may be a problem if it is consistently “misplaced or uncontrolled.” Out-of-control anger, or anger that is harming others, needs to be addressed. If untreated, anger can harm friendships and family relationships, impact career and job opportunities, and even have effects on your health, putting you at increased risk for high blood pressure and heart disease, according to the APA.
Therapy is a great way to address anger issues, with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy being common and effective modalities. Family therapy can help repair broken relationships that stem from anger issues. Therapy can you begin to recognize your triggers as well as come up with anger management plans.