Anger: When to Ask for Extra Help

Sometimes anger is a sign that more is going on. People who have frequent trouble with anger, who get in fights or arguments, who get punished, who have life situations that give them reason to often be angry may need special help to get a problem with anger under control.

Tell your parents, a teacher, a counselor, or another adult you trust if any of these things have been happening:

• You have a lasting feeling of anger over things that have either happened to you in the past or are going on now.
• You feel irritable, grumpy, or in a bad mood more often than not.
• You feel consistent anger or rage at yourself.
• You feel anger that lasts for days or makes you want to hurt yourself or someone else.
• You're often getting into fights or arguments.

These could be signs of depression or something else — and you shouldn't have to handle that alone.

Anger is a strong emotion. It can feel overwhelming at times. Learning how to deal with strong emotions — without losing control — is part of becoming more mature. It takes a little effort, a little practice, and a little patience, but you can get there if you want to.

Reviewed by: Matthew K. Nock, PhD
Date reviewed: June 2008

http://kidshealth.org/teen/cancer_center/feelings/deal_with_anger.html#a_When_to_Ask_for_Extra_Help