While you may not realize it, this persistent anger could actually be a sign of depression. Some people living with depression notice increased feelings of anger and irritability, directed both toward themselves and others.
Anger is a basic human emotion, so you’re bound to experience it at some point in life. People often consider anger a “negative” emotion, but that’s not necessarily the case. Anger usually happens for a reason, after all. When you can harness it and manage it productively, it can even provide some insight into the problem that provoked it. But what about anger that rushes up suddenly without a clear cause, or lingers long after the event that triggered it. Maybe you: frequently lash out or snap at loved ones
have a hard time holding on to your temper, even in response to small setbacks
always have a sharp or critical comeback ready While you may not realize it, this persistent anger could actually be a sign of depression. Some people living with depression notice increased feelings of anger and irritability, directed both toward themselves and others. Read on to learn more about the connection between anger and depression and get some guidance on reaching out for support.
What is anger? Anger generally happens when you face some type of injustice or feel slighted, threatened, or otherwise mistreated. You might, for example, feel angry when: you’re facing a difficult life challenge, especially one you can’t do anything about
someone hurts you or someone you care about
you feel unappreciated or misunderstood by others Feelings of anger can lead to: a rapid heartbeat
sudden tightness in your chest
weakness, trembling, or shaking
muscle tension, especially in your face and jaw
increased sweating
flushing and warmth throughout your body
an urge to shove, punch, throw, or destroy objects
an urge to hit, push, or hurt yourself or someone else
an urge to shout, especially at the person or thing that triggered your anger
feelings of resentment, humiliation, or guilt
restlessness and tension, or the sense that you can’t settle down Anger often resolves once you’ve solved the problem, addressed the threat, or taken some time to sit with and sort through your feelings. But a constant simmer of anger that lacks a clear cause can suggest a more complex underlying cause, such as depression. You might try to suppress or ignore this anger, hoping it will eventually fade. But anger that stems from depression may not dissipate so easily — it’s more likely to resist your efforts to tamp it down. Eventually, this persistent anger can bubble up into outbursts.
Could your anger be a sign of depression? The most recent edition of the “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)” doesn’t list anger among the nine main symptoms of depression. That said, the manual does emphasize that many people living with major depressive disorder (MDD) notice lingering feelings of anger, irritability, and frustration. Anger can manifest with depression in a number of ways. Irritability With an irritable mood, you might: get impatient with others, or yourself, easily
feel touchy or annoyed, even over small problems
How do you talk dirty without being Cringey?
Here are five tips for indulging in dirty talk — without being cringey. Lean into your senses. Kinktok creator Angel Ardito shared with Bustle: “A...
vent your frustrations through your behavior, by slamming doors or tossing objects aside , for example
, for example find yourself making sharp, critical, or harsh remarks that lead to conflict
making sharp, critical, or harsh remarks that lead to conflict have the urge to pace, fidget, or remain in constant motion Irritability might also show up as a pessimistic or defeated outlook. After a mistake or setback, feelings of frustration and anger might combine with a general sense of hopelessness. Instead of exploring what you can do to salvage the situation, you might lose your temper. “What’s the point? I can’t do anything right,” or “Nothing’s going to work out how I planned.” Hostility In basic terms, hostility involves bitter, unkind, suspicious, or spiteful feelings. You might direct these feelings toward specific people, the world in general, or even yourself. Some examples of hostility include: cruel or sarcastic comments
a habit of blaming others when things go wrong
a tendency to respond to threats or perceived threats with enraged or aggressive outbursts
mean or unfriendly behavior
a habit of doubting others and their intentions You can experience these intense feelings of anger and dislike without ever sharing them with others — they might remain exclusively in your thoughts. Hostile feelings can also lead to guilt, another emotion common with depression. Anger attacks Some experts consider anger attacks a unique presentation of anger with depression. According to research from 2011 and 2019 , anger attacks aren’t just common with depression. They can also affect your behavior toward others and quality of life. These attacks involve sudden, intense anger that: isn’t typical for you
is out of proportion or inappropriate for the circumstances
prompts feelings of guilt and regret once it fades You’ll generally also experience some of the signs below: flushing
increased sweating
tightness, pressure, or pounding in your chest
“pins and needles,” or numbness and tingling in your limbs and extremities
difficulty taking a deep breath
shaking, dizziness, or lightheadness
feelings of anxiety and fear
a sense of losing control
an urge to verbally or physically lash out at other people or objects
destruction of property or objects Anger attacks can also happen with other mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders and bipolar disorder.
When to get professional support If you experience persistent anger along with other symptoms of depression, a good next step involves reaching out to a therapist. Depression often won’t improve without support from a trained mental health professional. Therapy can have a lot of benefit for anger, too — though it’s certainly possible to learn to control anger on your own. It’s always a good idea to get support for any mental health symptoms that: get in the way of handling daily tasks and responsibilities
affect personal and professional relationships
How to make her jealous?
10 Ways To Make Your Girlfriend Jealous Compliment Other Women In Front Of Your Girlfriend. ... Create A Little Distance From Her. ... Mention...
affect sleep or physical health Therapy offers a safe space to: get treatment for depression symptoms
identify potential causes of depression and anger
learn effective strategies to cope with triggers and manage overwhelming emotions
Treatment for anger and depression Your therapist will begin treatment by asking you questions about things, like: physical and emotional symptoms, including when they began and how often you notice them
your daily life, including any recent changes you’ve experienced
your relationships with others
changes in your behavior
thoughts of hurting yourself or others Answering these questions openly and honestly can help them get a clearer picture of what you’re dealing with, which makes it easier for them to provide the most effective treatment. Your therapist should always offer compassion, respect, and judgment-free support. Remember, a therapist’s role is to help, not pass judgment on your feelings or behavior. The best approach to treatment for you can depend on your symptoms and how they affect your life. Your therapist might recommend: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Through CBT, you’ll challenge and reframe angry reactions and unwanted thought patterns that stem from depression.
Through CBT, you’ll challenge and reframe angry reactions and unwanted thought patterns that stem from depression. Psychodynamic therapy. This type of therapy can help you explore the sources of anger and depression.
This type of therapy can help you explore the sources of anger and depression. Interpersonal therapy. With interpersonal therapy, you’ll learn strategies for addressing and communicating anger and other difficult feelings affecting your relationships.
With interpersonal therapy, you’ll learn strategies for addressing and communicating anger and other difficult feelings affecting your relationships. Antidepressant medication. These medications could help ease feelings of anger and hostility, along with symptoms of depression.
These medications could help ease feelings of anger and hostility, along with symptoms of depression. Complementary approaches. Meditation, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques can all help you navigate overwhelming emotions.
Infatuation Rules
Photo: cottonbro studio
Promotion
Promotion
Promotion
Promotion
Promotion