Anger: When to Seek Help for Emotional Struggles

Q: Anger: When to Seek Help for Emotional Struggles

Hello, Xuan： It sounds like you are going through a lot of pain if you resort to self-harm, breaking things, and having thoughts of death when you get angry. <br>It would be a good idea to consult a psychologist to explore what issues you might be facing. <br>Dr. <br>Song

When angry

I feel so angry that I want to die.
When I'm angry, I sometimes self-harm or break things, but my parents tell me not to do those things.
I cry a lot, and I often make my parents angry.
They always say I'm very stubborn and that I disturb the peace of the home.
Is it all my fault? Is it really all my fault? I feel like I might be sick; I always think I shouldn't be in this family.
Do I need to see a psychologist?

Xuan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/12

Dr. Song Chengxian reply Psychiatry

Hello, Xuan: It sounds like you are going through a lot of pain if you resort to self-harm, breaking things, and having thoughts of death when you get angry.
It would be a good idea to consult a psychologist to explore what issues you might be facing.
Dr.
Song

Reply Date: 2017/05/12

More Info

It sounds like you are going through a very challenging time, and I want to acknowledge the pain and frustration you are feeling. Anger, especially when it leads to self-harm or destructive behavior, is a serious issue that should not be taken lightly. It’s important to understand that feeling angry or upset does not mean that you are a bad person or that you don’t belong in your family. Emotions can be overwhelming, and it’s okay to seek help when you feel like you can’t manage them on your own.

From what you’ve described, it seems like your anger is not just a fleeting emotion but something that is deeply affecting your well-being and your relationships with your family. When you mention thoughts of self-harm and feelings of worthlessness, these are significant indicators that you may benefit from professional support. It’s crucial to talk to someone who can help you process these feelings in a safe and constructive way.

Understanding Anger and Emotional Struggles
Anger is a natural emotion, but when it becomes intense and leads to harmful actions, it can indicate underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma. It’s also common for people who struggle with anger to feel isolated or misunderstood, which can exacerbate feelings of worthlessness or the belief that they don’t belong.
Your feelings of being a burden to your family or believing that you are the cause of the family’s unrest are not uncommon among individuals who struggle with emotional regulation. It’s essential to recognize that while your actions may affect those around you, it does not define your worth or your place in your family.
When to Seek Help
1. Persistent Feelings of Anger or Sadness: If you find that your anger is persistent and leads to self-destructive behaviors, it’s a clear sign that you should seek help. Professional therapists can provide you with coping strategies and tools to manage your emotions more effectively.

2. Thoughts of Self-Harm: If you are having thoughts of self-harm or feeling like you want to disappear, it’s crucial to talk to someone immediately. This could be a trusted adult, a school counselor, or a mental health professional.

3. Impact on Daily Life: If your emotions are affecting your daily activities, relationships, or overall quality of life, it’s time to reach out for support. Therapy can help you explore the root causes of your anger and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

4. Family Dynamics: If your family is struggling to understand your emotions, family therapy might also be beneficial. It can help improve communication and understanding among family members.

Steps to Take
- Talk to Someone: Consider reaching out to a mental health professional. They can provide a safe space for you to express your feelings and help you work through them.

- Journaling: Writing down your feelings can be a therapeutic way to process your emotions. It can help you identify triggers and patterns in your anger.

- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help you manage your emotions and reduce feelings of anger and anxiety.

- Engage in Healthy Activities: Find activities that you enjoy and that help you relax, whether it’s sports, art, music, or spending time in nature.

In conclusion, you are not alone in this struggle, and it’s commendable that you are seeking answers and support. Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You deserve to feel better and to find peace within yourself and your family.

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