We typically think of deep, unrelenting sadness as the hallmark of major depression, and for many people that’s true. But depression doesn’t look the same for everyone. For one-third of those with depression, anger becomes a consistent problem, even though anger is rarely mentioned as being a potential part of depression or other psychological disorders.
Anger is surprisingly common in psychological disorders, particularly among men . They may live for years with anger as a constant unwelcome companion, a companion that wrecks relationships and costs a person a great deal. Anger may present as “anger attacks,” in which a person who feels emotionally trapped may lash out aggressively, even destructively.
Consider that depression is a disorder of emotional dysregulation. The mechanisms the brain uses to keep a steady, stable emotional state don’t work well, leading to symptoms like these:
• Profound feelings of sadness
• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
• Inability to fall asleep (insomnia) or too much sleep (hypersomnia)
• Restlessness or agitation
• Slow movement (psychomotor retardation)
• Brain fog, poor concentration, reduced ability to focus
• Trouble making decisions
• Lethargy
• Thoughts of death
• Repetitive thoughts about negative events, dwelling on the past (rumination)
Is it then any wonder that a person already suffering from an inability to maintain a normal mood might also be unable to moderate anger? As well, habits can make the tendency to respond with anger or aggression worse.
Researchers believe that rumination is a big part of chronic anger in psychological disorders. Rumination is repetitive thinking that is focused on failures or perceived failures that can’t be changed. It’s centered on the past and has no value in leading a more positive life. Rumination tends to be habitual, and with psychotherapy that focuses on learning better ways to manage one’s emotions, it can be eliminated.
It’s important to understand that people with chronic anger problems find their outbursts frightening and unpleasant. These episodes lead to a sense of being out of control and their consequences, such as being shunned by friends, are devastating to those already marginalized by their disorder.
Treating chronic anger accompanying psychological disorders is possible and has good outcomes. Psychotherapy or psychotherapy with medication can reduce and eliminate anger outbursts.
If anger is a problem you can’t get a handle on, you can receive help. Damaris Aragon, ARNP, BC provides a full spectrum of mental health care to people in Spokane, Washington, and surrounding areas. She focuses on providing personalized, compassionate care that adheres to current evidence-based standards. Reach out to Damaris through her contact page or calling 509-342-6592.
