Anger Addiction

Anger can certainly make us feel we are in a fog and we are unable to see clearly, We can get addicted to anger. It can become compulsive and used as a way of managing uncomfortable feelings. Just like other addictive behaviours such as gambling, extreme sports, drugs and alcohol.

Anger can become its own reward. Like other addictions, the final consequences can be dangerous. They are also very real.

Sadly, the period following the angry outburst often reinforces negative consequences that hurt us in the eyes of others. This reinforces the cycle of insecurity and punishment that ultimately risks hurting the angry individual.

For some people, who have been raised in environments where boundaries are either weak, rigid or both, anger might become 'the norm' and therefore acceptable and strangely comforting. It can help distract us or escape from underlying uncomfortable feelings of emptiness or fear.

And sometimes this is easier than facing darker emotions such as loss or grief.

There are ways in which we can tackle our anger. Learning alternative behaviours such as problem solving and relying less on impulsive outbursts can help, as can talking about the triggers before they build up.

The most important step however is to admit we have an anger problem and to take a step back to see how our behaviour affects the other people in our lives. Then consider how it is affecting us.

The change begins within us.