How to Support Individuals When They Feel Angry

Some individuals are placid and calm, and nothing seems to annoy or upset them. Others are easily angered and often feel angry. Their response can seem out of proportion to the situation, and they might become furious over minor problems and concerns.

If we understand behaviour as a form of communication, it’s important to understand why they are feeling angry, rather than simply seeking to calm them down. We can teach self-regulation strategies when an individual is feeling calm, so they have practised alternatives they can use when they feel this way in future.

Anger is not a bad emotion; we all naturally feel angry at times. It is important that the individual knows that the aim is not to simply suppress powerful emotions. We have the opportunity to support them to identify and develop safe and effective coping strategies.

Why do some individuals struggle to manage anger?

We feel angry for a wide range of reasons and, in most cases, it is short-lived and causes minimal upset. However, many people may experience prolonged anger and frustration.

When children feel angry, they often have a physical outburst to express their emotions because they don’t yet have the language skills to communicate how they feel. This is also common for individuals with communication needs, who feel frustrated that they are not being understood, or whose needs haven’t been met.

There are lots of other reasons why some individuals may struggle with feelings of anger:

• • Anxiety: The “fight or flight” response means they can respond angrily when worried or feeling trapped.

• • Low self-esteem: Feeling worthless or stupid because of an unmet need or specific learning difficulty.

• • Trauma: Traumatic experiences can have a significant impact on emotions and how we respond to situations.

• • Sensory overload: Many individuals are affected when their senses feel overwhelmed.