5 Tips for Helping your Teen Manage Anger Issues

Warning signs and how to counteract behaviors

Yelling, fighting, hitting, tantrums, biting, self-harm are all symptoms of quick-to-anger children and adolescents. If this sounds familiar, then take note to help your teen deal with pent-up frustrations, anxiety and even, depression. According to the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, about 19 percent of young people receiving mental health services need treatment for anger issues. 

First, let’s check the signs. There is a more extensive list here 

These are typical signs your child might exhibit if they have anger issues:

• Frequent angry outburst, even over minor issues
• Damage to property
  
• Trouble calming down
  
• Resorts to physical aggression
• Doesn’t care about other’s feelings
• Won’t accept responsibility for actions
• Needs to be reminded to control temper
• Bullying

Anger is a normal emotion, so occasional issues or arguments are not a sign of a problem. However, when these issues grow out of control, it’s time to take action. A trained therapist can work with an angry teen to uncover reasons behind the rage but parents, friends and mentors can also take action.

Second, seek solutions with results. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

1. Create a calm spot. Work with your teen to create a place where he can go to gain control. In this space there should be things he enjoys such as books, music, art work, comfortable seating, etc.
2. Use self-talk. Have a few go-to phrases that you and your teen can repeat when things start to escalate such as, “stay in control,” or “I can handle this.” Use these phrases when the anger boils up.
3. Exercise. Research shows an easy way to improve mood is to increase exercise. Go for a walk with your teen, run, swim or hike. Encourage him to join a league or find a new sport.
4. Meditate. This works best if you and/or your teen do it regularly. Have your teen incorporate a daily meditation and breathing exercise. This goes a long way in the areas of self-control and regulating emotions.
5. Write things down. Journaling emotions and feelings can help. It can also point out triggers, which can help your teen anticipate future emotional reactions.  

Community Solutions offers programs to help you and your teen.  Give us a call at 757-461-5098 or e-mail [email protected].

Sources: HelpGuide.org, U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, The Teen Treatment  Center, Dr. Michele Borba.

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