Are anger issues a disability?

            Thank you for your question, reader. While it can certainly be challenging to react to feelings of anger appropriately, having difficulties managing anger is not in itself a medical diagnosis. Having outbursts of anger-related behaviors would not in itself quality someone for disability under the law. Experiencing anger is a natural human experience, so there is not something “disabled” about someone having anger. Usually when we hear someone use the phrase “anger issues”, they are referring to the problems that can come from feeling anger and not having effective tools to handle or express that anger. Not being able to express anger appropriately could certainly cause disruption in life. Getting help with anger management can help people feel like they have the tools they need to diffuse anger before it gets the best of them. Learning new tools to manage anger is very possible, and people can experience a lot of improvement. Being able to respond to anger appropriately can improve someone’s confidence in themselves and be relieving, as people can feel regretful about things they might have done or said when overtaken by anger.

There are certain mental health conditions that can make it more difficult for people to manage anger and other intense emotions. Some people with anxiety disorder, for example, find it more difficult to diffuse anger or to react calmly when feeling angry. This can also be the case for some people with mood disorders and personality disorders. Some developmental disorders can also make it challenging for people to learn how to manage feelings of anger. Anger can be part of a trauma response for people who have been impacted by trauma. In this way, difficulties with anger management can be a symptom of something more serious. If you are concerned about your level of anger and the ways that you tend to react when angry, and it is causing you significant problems in your life, I recommend seeing a mental health professional to evaluate you for an underlying mental health condition. Together, you can help correctly identify what you are struggling with and come up with an effective plan for treatment.