Anger

Anger is an emotion ranging from annoyance to destructive rage. When anger becomes a problem, it can can lead to the mental and physical abuse of oneself through self-criticism and self-injury, and of others through bullying, name calling, sarcasm, and physical violence. In the UK, 28% of adults worry about their anger, 32% know someone with problem anger, and 20% have ended a relationship with someone due to their problem anger (Mental Health Foundation).

 

When anger is internalised it can produce symptoms like anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, and drug and alcohol misuse. When people with problem anger direct their anger at others, there is often a cycle that starts with self-justification and blame of others and ends with guilt. People can become addicted to using anger, as it can help them get what they want, but in time, they risk losing relationships, jobs, and sometimes their freedoms.

 

The popular Incredible Hulk is a symbol for anger caused by bereavement. David did not have the physical strength to save his beloved wife from dying in a car accident. He tried to avoid his grief by conducting an experiment to gain more physical strength. The experiment, like his life, did not go as he had hoped, and he became the Hulk, a symbol of his anger. Popular characters like the Hulk resonate with large audiences as they both symbolise and mask humaness.

 

The causes of anger are believed to include abuse, bereavement, childhood issues, growing up in a family where problem anger was the norm, fear, hunger, loneliness, personal relationships, physical illness, physical pain, sexual frustration, stress, tiredness, and withdrawal from drugs and alcohol. If you are concerned about a problem do not diagnose yourself. Always consult your GP or a therapist who is qualified to both diagnose the issue and help you work through it.