Recognizing And Working Through Unhealthy Teen Anger
Does your teenage child often express emotions through angry outbursts? Do you frequently get calls from your child’s school because they are involved in confrontations with teachers and peers? When you try to reach out to your teen to help them, does your child yell and withdraw? Excessive anger can damage one’s physical, emotional and behavioral health. You don’t have to wait until your teen’s anger becomes completely unmanageable to reach out for help.
Understanding Why Teens Get Angry
Regardless of age, people get irritated sometimes. Experts describe anger as a primary and natural emotion experienced by anyone from time to time. It ranges from slight irritation to moderate frustration, all the way to full-blown rage. It may be easier for parents to accept a child’s anger, but it can be difficult and frightening when it comes to teenage anger. When that child becomes taller than you are, and “throws their weight around,” it may be time for some serious thought on how to help your teen cope with anger.
Due to the tremendous pressure and demands faced by today’s teens, life’s challenges can become too overwhelming and often results in frustration. Without outlets or sources of relief, teens often practice self-defeating behaviors and express themselves in unhealthy ways. This may include staying out late, disregarding house rules, and lashing out at others physically or verbally. Frequently, their actions can spiral out of control, and without knowing what to do, depression may set in. Depression is often manifested in anger, violence, despair and withdrawal.
Some teens, however, are at higher risk for developing severe anger-based disorders. This can include teens with experiences of abuse during childhood. Even though some of them may feel remorseful about their outbursts, many of these teens may continue to vent their anger on their loved ones and people around them.
Counseling and Anger
Asking for help is not always an easy step to take, but it is more difficult to live under the cloud of excessive anger. Finding effective teens/adolescent counseling services can feel daunting and overwhelming. CCS in Pittsboro contracts with skilled licensed therapists who can help.
Counseling can allow your teen to vent and process their emotions in a healthier way. They can learn effective distress tolerance and emotion regulation skills so that they are no longer feeling ruled by their anger. Call CCS today to get started. Online counseling sessions are also available!