Everyone experiences anger — it’s a natural and even healthy emotion. Feeling angry can signal that something is wrong or unjust, and it can motivate you to take action and make positive changes. However, when anger becomes uncontrollable and starts to negatively impact relationships and daily life, it may be a sign of an anger issue.
So, when does anger become a problem? Knowing the answer to this question can help you recognize and address anger issues before they escalate. If you’re a teen struggling with anger, you’re not alone, and there are ways to cope and get help. Check out this blog for an overview of anger concerns today.
Anger vs. Anger Issues
Not all anger is problematic. It’s normal to feel angry sometimes, especially as a teen trying to navigate challenging emotional and social changes. However, if anger seems to be taking over your life, it may be a sign of an anger issue. Anger issues are more than just feeling angry occasionally — they involve difficulty controlling anger and expressing it in healthy ways.
If you’re trying to figure out when anger becomes a problem, consider the effects your anger is having on your life. Is it disruptive? Are you ruining relationships? What’s causing your anger? Let’s take a closer look to try and answer some of these questions.
What Causes Anger Concerns in Teens?
Why do some teens struggle with anger while others seem to have a better handle on it? There are various reasons why teens may develop issues with anger, including:
- Difficult family dynamics or relationships – Teens who come from homes with high levels of conflict and stress may have a harder time managing their own emotions.
- Mental health conditions – Disorders such as ADHD or oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) can contribute to problems controlling anger.
- Trauma or past experiences – Teens who have experienced traumatic events or difficult life experiences may turn to anger as a coping mechanism.
- Social media and peer influences – Pressure from peers or feeling misunderstood and isolated can lead to feelings of anger.
While these factors may contribute to problems controlling anger, it’s essential to remember that everyone’s experiences and struggles are unique. You might be angry for reasons that aren’t on our list. If you’re not sure why you’re so angry, talking with a professional can help find the underlying cause of your feelings.
When Does Anger Become a Problem | Five Signs
It can be difficult to recognize when anger does become a problem, crossing the line from normal emotional response and into problematic behavior. Here are five signs that your anger may be disrupting your life in an unhealthy way:
- Frequent and intense anger episodes – When anger becomes a constant and overwhelming emotion, it may be a sign of an issue.
- Physical manifestations – Clenched fists, raised voices, and aggressive body language are physical signs that anger is becoming unmanageable.
- Difficulty calming down – If you find it challenging to calm down after getting angry, or if your anger lasts for extended periods, it may be a red flag.
- Negative impact on relationships – If your anger is causing problems with family, friends, or romantic partners, it may be time to seek help.
- Legal consequences – Getting into fights or breaking objects can have serious legal consequences and is a sign that anger may be out of control.
These are just a few examples of signs that your emotions are out of your control. If you’re unsure what to do when anger does become a problem for you or someone you love, it’s always best to seek professional help.
Connect with Ascend for Help
If you think your anger is a concern, Ascend is here to help. Our programs focus on emotional regulation disorders in both residential and outpatient settings. With personalized therapy programs that emphasize family dynamics and individual sessions, you can get to the root of your concerns and learn to channel anger in a healthier way.
Don’t wait for when anger does become a problem. If you’re seeing some of these signs, reach out to us at 310.388.3713 today.
