Anger is a normal human emotion. However, when it becomes frequent, intense, or difficult to control, it can lead to problems in relationships, work, and health. Chronic anger may also be a symptom of an underlying mental health issue. If anger feels overwhelming or disruptive, seeking help from a mental health professional can make a real difference.
As a Consultant Psychiatrist based in Kharadi, Pune, Dr. Sachin Dhanwade specializes in helping individuals understand the root causes of their anger and find effective ways to manage it—through personalized counseling and, when needed, psychiatric medication.
Understanding Anger: When It Becomes a Problem
Everyone gets angry occasionally. But when anger becomes:
Disproportionate to the situation
Frequent and explosive
Harmful to relationships or work
Associated with aggression or violence
…it may require professional evaluation and support.
Uncontrolled anger is not just a behavioral issue—it can also be a sign of mood disorders, personality disorders, or stress-related conditions. Ignoring it can lead to physical health issues such as high blood pressure, insomnia, digestive problems, and increased risk of heart disease.
Common Causes of Uncontrolled Anger
Anger issues may be triggered or worsened by:
Unresolved past trauma
Chronic stress or anxiety
Mood disorders like depression or bipolar disorder
Substance use or withdrawal
Personality disorders such as borderline or antisocial personality disorder
Low frustration tolerance or poor coping skills
Understanding the root cause of your anger is the first step toward managing it effectively.
Role of Psychiatric Counseling in Anger Management
Psychiatric counseling (or psychotherapy) helps individuals explore the triggers, thoughts, and emotions behind their anger. It is not about suppressing anger but about expressing it in a healthy, controlled manner.
Types of counseling that can help include:
1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps patients identify negative thought patterns and replace them with more balanced and constructive ways of thinking. For example, instead of assuming someone’s action was meant to offend you, CBT teaches you to evaluate the situation more objectively.
2. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Useful in individuals with mood swings or personality disorders, DBT teaches emotional regulation, mindfulness, and distress tolerance skills to reduce emotional outbursts.
3. Anger Management Therapy
These sessions are specifically designed to help individuals recognize early signs of anger and implement techniques like deep breathing, timeout, and communication strategies.
4. Family or Relationship Counseling
Sometimes anger stems from or affects relationships. Involving close family members in therapy can improve understanding and reduce conflicts at home.
When Is Medication Needed?
Not everyone with anger issues requires medication. However, if the anger is linked to an underlying psychiatric condition, medications may be prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Common situations where medication may be considered:
Anger due to depression, anxiety, or PTSD
Mood instability seen in bipolar disorder
Aggression linked to impulse control disorders
Severe irritability in ADHD or personality disorders
Types of medications that may be used include:
Antidepressants – To stabilize mood and reduce irritability
Mood stabilizers – Helpful in controlling mood swings and aggression
Anti-anxiety medications – For anger linked with high anxiety
Antipsychotics – Occasionally used in cases of severe impulsive aggression
All medications are prescribed after a thorough psychiatric evaluation, and their effects are closely monitored.
Self-Help Strategies to Support Treatment
While professional help is essential, individuals can also benefit from practicing these self-help techniques:
Deep breathing and relaxation exercises
Mindfulness meditation to stay grounded
Regular physical activity to release built-up tension
Journaling to process thoughts and triggers
Avoiding alcohol and stimulants which can worsen irritability
Practicing assertive (not aggressive) communication
When to See a Psychiatrist?
You should consult a psychiatrist if:
You experience frequent anger outbursts
Your anger is harming your relationships or job
You feel out of control during angry moments
You have thoughts of harming yourself or others
You've tried to manage anger on your own but haven’t succeeded
Timely psychiatric intervention can prevent long-term emotional and social consequences.
Anger is a powerful emotion, but it doesn’t have to control your life. With the right psychiatric support, counseling, and—if needed—medication, it’s possible to channel anger in a healthier, more constructive way.
If you or someone you know is struggling with anger issues, don’t hesitate to seek help. Book an appointment with Dr. Sachin Dhanwade, Consultant Psychiatrist in Kharadi, Pune, for a personalized evaluation and effective anger management plan.
Read More:
Treatment Options for Depression | Dr. Sachin Dhanwade
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