Anxiety and Anger: Are They Related?

The thoughts that may come up when thinking about what anxiety and anger feel like can often be connected with a sense of losing control. Often times, anxiety and anger are more connected and related to each other than one may imagine.

Anxiety comes from the root feeling often related to stress, often due to a feeling of worry about a particular outcome, and can lead to feelings of being unable to cope with or control one’s situation. These feelings of being unable to manage your routine or choices can either lead to feeling frustrated or furious.

Anger often begins with a sense of being wronged or unable to accomplish what we choose. It is very common for people to experience both anxiety and anger together. Being aware of what leads to these feelings begins to help with overcoming the struggles these often bring.

Often, when these two feelings arise, we feel a sense of urgency to “not feel” these emotions. This can lead to feelings of shame and guilt that come from misunderstanding their true purpose.

Anxiety and anger are related with regard to how these two influence each other into causing a greater sense of panic and urgency. When these feelings arise, it can cause feelings of guilt that you may not be able to control how you are feeling. The mindset we have regarding our expectations of how we “should” behave can influence our thoughts, feelings, and actions.

Being aware that anxiety and anger are a healthy part of life is essential to accepting and acknowledging these feelings in our lives. However, these feelings can become burdensome if they have more control over one’s life than necessary.

It is important to notice the relationship between anxiety and anger, accept how these two emotions are connected, and also the awareness of how to manage these feelings through practicing empathy towards yourself and others in your life.

Getting Help for Anxiety and Anger

If you need help learning to control and overcome these powerful emotions, I invite you to contact one of the counselors in the counselor directory to schedule an appointment.