Anger

- Anger is a natural emotion in response to perceived threats
It’s normal to feel angry every now and then and most of the time these feelings are manageable  

By the Calm Team

- If you feel unable to control your anger, or it’s hurting you, or those around you,  there is support

Everyone gets angry sometimes. Anger can even help us to identify problems, or spur us into meeting our goals, but this emotion can become more complicated when it overwhelms us. If you’re worried, or struggling with outbursts of anger, it doesn’t make you a bad person. There are lots of reasons why you may be feeling this way and plenty of support available.

It can feel worrying when you don’t feel in control of your emotions, so if you, or someone you know is struggling to control your anger, CALM is here to talk- (tel:0800585858). You can speak to one of their trained helpline staff, who can support you in moving forward.

How do anger issues feel?

Anger can be triggered by different challenges in our lives, such as financial pressures, family issues, or stress, but it can also be a symptom of an underlying condition like depression, or other deep seated difficulties. It’s important to remember you’re not alone and struggling with anger doesn’t make you an irrational person. Anger issues can feel intense and overpowering, emotions may include:

- Rage
- Irritability at seemingly small things
- Feeling restless or on edge
- Difficulty concentrating
- Being overly argumentative
- A pounding heartbeat or tight chest
- Physical or verbal outbursts
- Tense muscles
- Clenching your jaw
- Feeling hot or sweaty

 If you think you are experiencing anger issues your GP can help.

Signs you’re finding it difficult to manage your anger

It’s normal to feel angry more quickly if you’re experiencing other difficulties in your life, but while it’s completely natural to feel angry in certain situations, anger can become difficult when you’re no longer able to manage these emotions. If you have found you are feeling this way frequently, here are some signs you may need some support in taking control of your anger:

- Your anger is having a negative affect on your mental and physical wellbeing
- You feel angry often and this may overrule other emotions
- You express anger through aggression, or other destructive ways
- Your anger is having a negative impact on you and people around you

Where can I find help?

- Talk to CALM from 5pm to midnight everyday. Our professional helpline workers are there to talk and to help you find ways to move forward. Calls and webchats are free, anonymous, non-judgemental and confidential.
- Outside of these hours, call the Samaritans on 116 123.
- Contact your GP for an appointment (which might be done over the phone or by video – during covid19).
- Self-refer yourself to NHS Psychological Therapies.

Talking about anger issues

It can be difficult to talk about anger issues with your friends, family or a medical professional. Here’s some ways you can start a conversation around how you’re feeling:

“I need to talk to you about how I’m feeling. Things are tough and I think I might be struggling with anger issues. I don’t need you to find a solution, I just want to share how I feel”

“I need to talk – I’ve been struggling with things and think I might be experiencing anger issues.”

Content source: https://www.thecalmzone.net/issues/anger/