I’ve never had anger issues until now

[Penny Williams]

This discussion was originally started by user patricialeigh in ADDitude’s now-retired community. The ADDitude editors have included it here to encourage more discussion.

 

I have known about my ADHD for the majority of my life.  I have always had anxiety issues, but anger was never a problem.  I would talk myself down when angry or take a few deep breaths.

Recently though, I have started to be angrier and angrier.  I hold it in and then I snap (usually with a sarcastic snap to whoever is around — my husband, family, and my 3 and 1 year old kids).

I don’t like who I am right now, I mutter under my breath, I hold grudges, and I am not the person I want to be or the person who I have been in the past.  It scares me.  Recently my doctor upped my anti-anxiety medications for this issue and it has helped some, but I also need other ways to control and express my anger.

I will be talking to my counselor (today) but if anyone has any suggestions that have helped them in the past I would appreciate it.

[Kevin Ju]

This reply was originally posted by user adhdmomma in ADDitude’s now-retired community.

You are not alone—this can be quite common among those with ADHD. Here are some great anger management tips for ADHDers:
https://www.additudemag.com/adhd/article/5235.html
https://www.additudemag.com/adhd/article/5249.html
https://www.additudemag.com/adhdblogs/27/10007.html

Penny
Moderator, Author on Parenting ADHD, Mom to pre-teen boy with ADHD, LDs, and mild autism

[Kevin Ju]

This reply was originally posted by user LakeLife in ADDitude’s now-retired community.

I hear you on the anger issues. Note that xanax has exceptionally limited effect on anger. At least in my experience.

Wondering, are you on amphetamine based drugs? That certainly can lead to anger issues when the effect wears off.

Exercise helps. A good work out gets the neurohumors moving.

One other thing.. Maybe you have reason to be angry? Has there been any significant changes that might account for this?

Best to you

[Author]

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