How to reduce anger issues and impulsive behavior?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am 18 and struggling with anger issues and impulsive behavior which I am unable to stop. I seriously think that I am quickly getting depressed and developing anxiety and repulsive behavior. I have had many past incidents which might have reflected upon my change in attitude change, and so I want to get rid of this. Please help me.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand the difficulties faced by you because of the impulsivity. Since you are only 18 years old, I would not consider any medications right now.

However, I would advise you first to appreciate the bodily changes that come when you become angry like clenching of teeth, feeling body muscles contracting and increased respiration.

Secondly, I would advise you to leave the situation or place which makes you angry.

Thirdly splash your face with cold water or take a bath and drink a glass of water. Then you can close your eyes and take deep slow breaths through your nose. While doing so kindly focus on your body muscles individually in a series like the first face then neck then trunk and so on. And also while taking deep breaths, you can count from 1 to 100. By doing so, you can manage your anger and thus your offensive behavior. Thank you.