Anger is an emotion that everyone experiences from time to time, and it is healthy to let out anger and not keep it bottled inside. However, some people may not be able to properly control these emotions and experience uncontrolled anger. While this certainly isn’t the most desirable situation, it can be harder to deal with the ramifications. If you or someone you know is frequently dealing with angry outbursts they can’t control, they may need to evaluate whether they need anger management counseling. Here are four reasons you need anger management counseling.

Unhealthy Ways of Dealing with Anger

There are healthy ways to deal with anger, and then there are unhealthy ways to deal with anger. Unhealthy ways of dealing with anger include physical abuse, resentment, rage, verbal abuse, and passive aggressiveness. When most people think of someone who has an anger management problem, they may think of more physical and vocal demonstrations of anger, but being passive-aggressive can be just as much a troubling sign as the more explosive displays of rage. 

Some people may not even realize that passive-aggressiveness is an unhealthy form of dealing with anger. Passive-aggressive behavior can be someone acting mean, being apathetic, or sarcastic. Being passive-aggressive may be “just part of their personality,” but that doesn’t mean it is a healthy coping mechanism.

Blaming Others and Not Accepting Responsibility for Your Actions

People who don’t deal with anger healthily often blame others for their problems and can be easily angered. Anger problems often have little to do with what happens to you and are more so with your reaction to what happens to you. If you always blame everyone else for what happens to you, this can be a sign of an anger problem. An emotionally healthy person accepts responsibility for their actions and doesn’t blame their problems on everyone else. 

You’re Easily Angered and Aggressive

Feeling angry, irritable, and quick-tempered can be a sign of an anger management problem. Not only is it a sign of a problem, it’s also emotionally and physically unhealthy. If you find yourself getting overly angry over minor issues, things that don’t usually anger others, or are generally irritable and cranky, you may have an anger management problem. If you find yourself aggressively expressing emotions, this can show that you have a problem controlling your anger. 

Your Anger is Disproportionate to the Situation 

Everyone feels angry from time to time, but if you find yourself throwing a temper tantrum over the most minor issues, this isn’t healthy. For example, if your child spills a glass of milk and you find yourself screaming at them, this may indicate an anger management problem. Accidents happen and should be expected, and people shouldn’t be criticized for accidents. Learning how to deal with anger properly is key, especially in families. 

Calm Again Counseling Can Help 

If you suspect you’re dealing with an anger management problem, Calm Again Counseling can help. We have experience helping many people through various situations and can help you lead an emotionally healthy life. Call us today to schedule your first appointment.