While the stereotype of the angry drunk is just a trope for many of us, this characteristic rings true for some individuals. Drinking can reduce your self-control and make it difficult to respond correctly to intense emotions such as anger.
Alcohol and aggression often work in a cycle. Drinking may help someone escape feelings of rage, which then allows them to ignore that their drinking has become problematic. The two often feed off one another to play a significant role in an individual’s health and well-being.
Why Do I Get Aggressive When I Drink?
The cause of aggression while drinking can vary between individuals. While alcohol can trigger anger in some people, others may have hostility present before they take their first sip.
Many people assume that alcohol itself is the problem, and that by getting their alcohol addiction under control, they can make their anger subside as well. However, if the source of your anger does not lie in your alcohol abuse, you will still need to identify and treat your triggers.
Some common issues that can trigger anger are:
- Stress
- Financial difficulty
- Lack of connection with family or friends
- Abuse
- Overwhelming obligations to work, family or others in your life
Individuals with co-occurring disorders such as mental health issues are also at risk of increased anger while they drink. If your anger is a symptom of a mental health condition, drinking can elevate it to a dangerous level.
Alcohol and Anger Management
The most effective way to break the cycle of alcohol and anger is to avoid drinking entirely. If you are not willing to give up alcohol, it’s essential to reflect on your feelings and any changes that occur when you drink.
Anger management is one of the best treatment options available to help individuals understand their feelings and develop effective coping methods. Working with a therapist can help you learn skills such as identifying triggers, communicating effectively and constructively redirecting anger.
Start Your Journey Toward Recovery With Crest View Recovery Center
If you are looking for effective treatments to help you regain control of your life, Crest View Recovery Center is here to help. Our comprehensive services will help you heal from alcohol abuse and discover and treat underlying issues to determine the cause of your anger. We offer outpatient services to fit your treatment needs, and partner with DreamLife Recovery for inpatient services. To learn more about our service options at our Asheville, North Carolina, center, call us at 866-986-1371 or complete our online contact form.
