Is treatment helpful for problems with anger?
Anger management programs often utilize cognitive-behavioral techniques.1, 2 The components include: • Education about the nature of anger • Cognitive strategies focused on changing unhelpful beliefs that trigger and maintain anger (e.g., “He tried to hurt me because he’s out to get me” vs. “Even though he hurt me he did not do it on purpose.”) • Identifying triggers for anger • Developing skills to cope with anger (e.g., relaxation techniques, assertiveness training and communication, and stress management) • Homework assignments to practice strategies learned in treatment. Anger management can be applied in individual or group formats. Psychosocial interventions have proven effective in reducing anger problems.4 Medications may be used to treat psychiatric disorders where anger is one of the symptoms. Since drug treatments vary depending upon the disorder and not all medications work the same for all people, it is recommended that you speak with your provider to find out what treatme
