Exploring Anger

Anger can arise from many different triggers and is a universal emotion. In its most basic form, anger happens when someone feels that they or someone they love has been wronged or they are frustrated by an obstacle preventing them from a personal goal.

When handled well, anger can be constructive in that it pushes you toward solving a problem or injustice. However, when anger becomes volatile, it can raise blood pressure, release stress hormones, and in extreme cases, lead to physical violence.

The brains of teenagers are still in development. Because their brains are not as developed as those of adults, teens struggle with decision making and self-discipline. The part of their brain controlling logic is also not fully formed yet. Coupled with issues such as a history of physical or emotional abuse, mental health, or substance abuse issues, adolescent anger can be a significant problem.

How To Identify Anger Issues in Teens

Because teens undergo so many personal shifts during adolescence, it can sometimes be hard to tell the difference between an anger problem and a passing phase. You might be seeking teen anger management help if you notice any of the following symptoms in your teen:

• Unusual or prolonged irritability
• Snapping at seemingly random occurrences
• Depression or sadness
• Wildly fluctuating emotions
• Frequent disciplinary action at school
• Major temper tantrums or similar episodes

Triggers and Other Causes of Anger

A person’s reaction to a stressful event or trigger can vary wildly. In teens, reactions can seem extreme to minor issues partially due to the fact that their brains are not yet fully developed but there are also other substantial triggers that can affect teens with regard to their anger.

Teens who have been physically or emotionally abused have learned to bottle in their emotions and frustrations as a means of survival. This leaves these adolescents vulnerable to explosive bouts of anger. Similarly, undiagnosed mental health issues such as depression or anxiety can manifest in teens as anger. Oftentimes, anger is the only outward symptom with such mental health issues.

It goes without saying that substance abuse in teens is a problem. However, the addition of drugs or alcohol to the developing teen brain can make it even more difficult for an adolescent to control themselves or their mood.

Strategies for Easing Teen Anger

The first step in the healing process is to identify the problem. Whether it’s something as simple as difficulty regulating emotions because of fluctuating hormones, or something more difficult like physical trauma, Lakeside Academy has proven strategies to help teens navigate their anger issues.

Our 4-Level program meets each student where he is. After an individual assessment, we employ cognitive-behavioral treatment methods and offer specialized counseling for those with diagnosed mental health issues and those with chemical dependency. We believe in rewarding positive behavior and as your student rises through the levels of our program, he is given increased privileges.

Additionally, we have both individual and group therapy for our students. Your son will meet with his primary counselor for support on a weekly basis. Your son will see the counselor more frequently if additional sessions are needed for substance issues or mental health check-ins. Daily community meetings facilitate healing while working in collaboration with others.

Reach Out to Lakeside Academy for Help

If your son is in need of teen anger management help, Lakeside Academy offers the resources necessary to promote healing. Contact us online  or reach out by phone at (844) 768-8336 if you have any questions or would like to schedule an interview.