Anger is a negative emotion that is rampant in our society. For many, anger is the default response to any perceived or real offense. Anger is one of the top reasons for damaged or broken relationships. While many who wrestle with anger are not proud of their anger issues, they find that they do not know how to change.

Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. – James 1:19 

Why do people become angry?

There are a lot of answers to this question, but here are a few:

Unfulfilled desires

Most people get angry because they did not get their way. This is just another form of sinful pride.

A mask for pain

Some people employ anger to mask fear, sadness, loneliness, or loss of control. Anger can often be used to mask feelings that are more difficult to manage.

Mistaking anger for assertiveness

Many people use anger in place of assertiveness because they don’t understand the difference between the two.

Trouble expressing emotions

Some struggle to express their emotions. For instance, some people believe that expressing sadness or fear shows that they are weak. This can lead to anger issues.

Learned behavior

Anger can be learned from caretakers who have their own anger issues.

A result of mental health disorders

Anger may occasionally indicate conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, addiction, or anxiety. These issues can make it difficult to healthily express anger.

Christian Counseling for Anger Issues

Anger management issues can be exhausting both for you and your loved ones. The counselors at Lake Forest Christian Counseling can help you overcome whatever issues are driving your anger. No matter what lies at the root of your anger problems, Christian counseling for anger management can teach you how to bring your anger under control.