Medication, counseling can help chronic anger

A reader recently presented that following problem:

“Dear Dr. LeCrone,

My husband has a problem with anger. He is quite irritable much of the time but over the last several years the irritability often turns into rage. These episodes of horrendous hostility take place at work, at home, and even when he is in the car (road rage). Our family doctor says he needs counseling. Can you comment on this subject?”

Dear reader,
Chronic hostility, anger, and rage can be a big problem. Also, when this problem is pervasive and occurs in many different situations the potential for more negative consequences occur.

All of us get angry at times. Hitting our thumb with a hammer, knocking over a glass of milk, or running out of gasoline in our automobile can all produce temporary moments of chagrin and, perhaps, anger. However, individuals who are chronically enraged can eventually suffer from health problems, major difficulty with relationships and problems at work. All of these things can generally reduce the chances for finding health and happiness in life.

Mental health professionals often see depression and/or substance abuse in the chronically angry individuals. Also, many chronically angry individuals have suffered from some sort of abuse or neglect during their childhood and adolescent years. In still other cases, individuals with poor self-esteem may perceive themselves as victims and passive recipients of many of life’s ills. Unassertive individuals who frequently feel taken advantaged of let their hostility build up much like a pressure cooker until they finally blow their stack in an aggressive and inappropriate fashion. Other explanations can also account for problems of chronic anger and a medical evaluation is a good place to start.

Fortunately treatment can be very effective in problems of chronic anger. Medication,
counseling or a combination of both may be needed.

As you can see, there are many possible reasons for chronic, pervasive anger and your
physician’s suggestion of consultation with a mental health professional would seem
appropriate in order to diagnose and treat your husband’s problem.

Harold H. LeCrone, Jr., Ph.D. Copyright 2002