Post by Admin on Aug 14, 2015 10:38:24 GMT -4
Anger and Mental Health
Does losing your temper mean you have a mental health problem? Not necessarily. Anger
is a normal human emotion which can cue us that there is a problem to be solved and give
us the energy and focus to solve it. Tennis player John McEnroe used to win more points
after he got angry. Apple founder Steve Jobs was an inveterate rager, but his intensity
was crucial in driving employees to achieve great things. People around these guys may
have developed mental health problems (mostly anxiety disorders!), but their anger often
served them well. On the other end of the spectrum, the meek child allowing herself to
get angry at a friend who is mistreating her, could help her to set healthy boundaries.
Even though anger is often a healthy emotion, there are instances where anger can be a
symptom of a mental health problem. Chronic anger or hostility may indicate a problem.
Chronic anger generates the hormone cortisol in the body and can cause cardiovascular
disease. This damage happens whether the anger is expressed or internalized, it only has
to be felt inside.
Anger sometimes is a sign of a more serious mental health problem. Anger may be a
symptom of depression or bipolar disorder, especially in men. A person who is
developing a thought disorder and is feeling persecuted may be expressing anger in
reaction to an imagined threat. Certain brain injuries can cause a loss of emotional control
and lead to rage reactions. Chronically jealous or controlling people may use anger as a
way of managing their own fear by intimidating another person. This may reflect an
enduring personality flaw caused by early life experiences.
If you are concerned about your anger or if important people in your life are expressing
concern, it may be a good idea to consult with your doctor who may suggest a further
consult with a mental health practitioner such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist. There
are very effective talk therapies to help people with anger problems. In certain cases
medication may also be helpful.
Oh yes, and if you are driving anywhere in Vancouver, make sure you take some deep
breaths first!
Dr. Jim Browning is a Registered Psychologist in West Vancouver - www.jimbrowning.ca/
The CMHA, North and West Vancouver Branch is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering,
supporting and improving the quality of life of mental health consumers and increasing the overall wellness
of the North Shore community - northwestvancouver.cmha.bc.ca/
