Much like the law of physics, for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction within our mind. This means that experiencing one mental health concern may raise other issues.
For example, living with anxiety, depression, or both may cause you to experience a variety of other issues. It is incredibly common for those living with these issues to develop an increased sense of anger. But how do these three come together?
Defining Anxiety
Anxiety is the most common mental health issue in America. Each year, over 40 million adults live with anxiety disorders. There are many different types of anxiety, ranging from agoraphobia to a specific phobia. Usually, anxiety circles around a specific concern, but worries are not limited to one fixation.
While anxiety manifests differently for each individual, the following are some of the most common symptoms.
- Feelings of restlessness or insomnia
- Being easily agitated or irritated
- Frequent headaches, stomachaches, and muscle aches
- Extreme self-doubt and lack of self-confidence
- Excessive worry
- Spiraling thoughts
Defining Depression
Just behind anxiety, depression is the second most common mental health concern in the United States. Depression goes far beyond simple feelings of melancholy. Rather, it permeates into every aspect of your life, creating a deep and permeating sorrow.
Every person deals with depression differently. However, if you recognize several of the following, you may be living with depression.
- Inability to find joy in activities that once excited you
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
- Low energy and mood
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Increased irritability and agitation
- Suicidal thoughts or ideations
The Relationship Between Anxiety, Depression, and Anger
As you can see, there are plenty of overlapping traits associated with both anxiety and depression. While there is a distinct difference between anxiety and depression, the two share incredibly similar characteristics. This makes both very susceptible to creating increased feelings of anger in those living with anxiety and depression.
Anxiety and depression cause irritability and unease within us. This unease opens the door to irritability, which then creates anger. Sometimes, the anger may be directed at no one in particular. Other times, you have a specific target at which to direct your anger.
Additionally, you may feel angry at your situation as a whole. There are certain individuals who never have to learn how to cope with anxiety or depression, let alone know what it truly feels like. You may perceive this as an injustice, and to an extent, it is. However, this anger is not good for your mind or your body. Keep reading to discover some ways you can cope with all three of these conditions.
Seeking Coping Mechanisms?
The good news is that there are plenty of ways you can rehabilitate your anger and turn it into something gentler. Try out a few of the following next time you feel a spark ignited within you.
Practice self-soothing: This works best before you get swept up in your anger. Utilize techniques that will calm you down, such as deep breathing.
- Find healthy outlets: Intense exercise is a great way to blow off steam in a constructive way. Consider taking up boxing or running to release your physical anger.
- Work on communication: Instead of blowing up in a fit of rage, communicate your needs as they come up. This takes some of the pressure off so that you can express anger in a healthy way.
Ultimately, I want you to be the best version of yourself that you possibly can be. Living with anxiety or depression is not a life-sentence; there are ways you can triumph over it. Seeking the help of a mental health professional is one of the best steps you can take toward overcoming. If you are interested in receiving counseling, I encourage you to reach out. Schedule an appointment with me on my website today.