Anger is a basic and universal emotion. Anger can be constructive and useful especially when we are under ‘attack’, as it can give us the energy to react and protect ourselves. However, sometimes when anger is excessive and is expressed in a destructive way, it can have detrimental effects on ourselves, others around us and our relationships.
If you struggle with anger management issues, you are likely to experience some or most of the following symptoms and could benefit from anger management 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 due to poor anger management
- 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
When to seek help
If anger management issues impact on your day-to-day life and on your relationships therapy / counselling can help. Anger management therapy/ counselling can help you to recognise you anger and develop healthy ways of communicating and express you anger, avoiding the devastating effects that unhelpful anger and aggression can have for you and others around you.
Dr Maria Pournara, Chartered Psychologist, has extensive experience in anger management and offers anger management counselling online.