Can Medication Help with Anger?
When people want to manage their anger, they often ask, “Can medication help with anger?” The question doesn’t have a simple “yes” or “no” answer. Instead, anger management problems may signify underlying issues that can be treated with medication. There is no “quick fix” for anger problems that will be cured with a pill, however.
If you have difficulty managing your anger, the first step in gaining treatment should be to see your primary care doctor. Your doctor can help rule out any underlying medical issues that may be contributing to your difficulties with managing your anger. Health issues, such as uncontrolled diabetes, can make it very difficult to regulate emotions.
If you gain clearance from your doctor, consider getting a complete mental health evaluation. Underlying mental health issues can contribute to anger problems. Sometimes, treating these underlying conditions can help people manage their anger better.
For example, depression can cause irritability, which can cause people to have a low tolerance for frustration. When people feel depressed they tend to have decreased motivation and less energy, which can cause marital problems. Depression is best treated with a combination of medication and therapy.
Anxiety can also lead to anger management issues. When people struggle to manage their daily stress and worries, they may lash out. People who have post-traumatic stress disorder may also have anger issues. Anxiety and PTSD can be treated with therapy and/or medication.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder can be another underlying issue that causes difficulty regulating emotions. Many people believe that children outgrow ADHD, however, this is not true. Many adults have ongoing symptoms of ADHD and this can cause impulsive behaviors that can look like anger. ADHD can often be treated with medication and therapy.
There is not a pill specifically to help with anger issues. However, anger management problems often mask underlying issues that can be treated with a combination of medication and therapy. If you or your spouse suffer from anger management problems, seek a thorough evaluation to rule out physical and mental health issues that may be contributing to the problems. Medication may be part of a treatment to help people regulate emotions but is best used in conjunction with therapy.
