Anger Management in Geelong

Having difficulty controlling anger? See an anger management therapist at Head Start Counselling & Psychology, who will provide techniques to manage your emotions and improve your communication. 

Anger, a universal emotion, ranges from mild irritation to intense rage, triggered by various external and internal factors. While natural, unmanaged anger can disrupt personal and professional spheres, impacting mental and physical health, relationships, and decision-making. 

Origins

Anger is hardwired into our biology, and it acts as a response to threats or challenges, activating the body's "fight or flight" mechanism. It stems from diverse triggers—external conflicts or internal stressors—and involves cognitive processes tied to expectations and reality. Anger can often serve as a secondary emotion, masking underlying feelings such as hurt, fear or unmet needs.

Symptoms

Ranging from increased heart rate to tense muscles, anger exists on a spectrum, intensifying based on individual temperament and experiences. Unchecked anger can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and physical health issues, harming relationships, and decision-making abilities.

• Irritability: Increased sensitivity to stress or triggers, leading to impatience or frustration in daily interactions.
• Aggression: Anger may be expressed through physical acts (e.g., punching objects) or verbal hostility. This can sometimes be directed at others or the environment.
• Risk-Taking or Impulsivity: Some people respond to anger or stress with impulsive or risky behaviours, such as reckless driving or substance use.
• Withdrawal or Silent Anger: Rather than expressing anger outwardly, some individuals internalise it — becoming quiet, withdrawn, or brooding.
• Passive Aggression: Anger may be expressed indirectly, through sarcasm, subtle digs, or avoidance behaviours.
• Emotional Intensity: Anger can emerge as strong emotional reactions, including crying, shouting, or sudden mood shifts.
• Overwhelm: When responsibilities or internal pressures build, anger may arise from feeling overstimulated, unsupported, or unheard.
• Physical Symptoms: Unexpressed anger can show up in the body — through headaches, muscle tension, gastrointestinal discomfort, or fatigue.
• Self-Blame or Guilt: Anger that is turned inward may result in self-criticism, guilt, or shame.

Who Might Experience Anger

Anyone can experience anger; however, intense, uncontrolled anger can lead to distress and impair daily functioning. It can impact mental and physical health, career, relationships, and potentially result in legal consequences for aggressive behaviour.

How to Address It:

• Anger management techniques involve identifying triggers, managing responses, and changing thought patterns. 
• Therapy aids in understanding and diffusing anger, offering coping strategies, relaxation techniques, and problem-solving skills. 
• Intervention also supports improved communication, constructive conflict resolution, and enhances decision-making abilities.

Benefits of Anger Management Therapy:

• Effective therapy identifies and addresses co-occurring mental health issues, facilitating a comprehensive approach to anger management. 
• Therapy helps individuals become aware of their thoughts and behaviours, developing skills to regulate emotional responses and foster healthier reactions to anger triggers.

How We Can Help

Our counsellors and psychologists focus on understanding individual triggers, offering evidence-based techniques, and aiding in effective anger management. With a tailored approach, our therapists help navigate anger, promoting emotional regulation, healthy communication, and personal growth.