How to Cope With Impulsive Aggression

Sudden blind rage defines impulsive aggression. It is the overwhelming attack of anger that blinds an individual to his actions and many times results in violent acts. Uncontrollable impulsive aggression is a symptom of mental illness and requires treatment by a mental heath professional.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Recognize aggression and anger as normal emotions. Express normal anger and aggression in socially accepted ways. Discuss your emotions with the source of your anger. Act aggressively on the sports field or in other competitive arenas.
2. Suspect a mental health problem if you experience sudden impulsive fits of anger that you cannot control with anger management skills. Walk away from the situation. Count to ten. Get some exercise to relieve stress and anger. Talk to an anger management specialist. If these tools are ineffective or your anger results in violence, seek anger management treatment.
3. Talk to an anger management specialist to learn how to manage your anger. Practice anger management skills in a group or individual counseling session. Look for anger management classes at your local mental health facility.
4. Seek medical treatment from a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist if you experience repeated bursts of blind rage resulting in violence or the probability of violence. Research indicates the chemicals in your brain may not be functioning properly. Visit a professional able to prescribe medication to properly regulate your brain's chemistry.
5. Watch for signs of impulsive aggression in loved ones, especially young men and the disabled. Impulsive aggressive tendencies are common among men in their late teens and early 20s. Suggest treatment if aggression escalates to violence or if violence seems probable.