Can Medication Therapy Help Your Anger Management?
If you are seeking help for anger management, one of the questions you may be wondering about is whether medication can help with anger management. Therapy for anger management can take a number of forms, including cognitive therapy ("talk therapy"), hypnotherapy, certain neuro-linguistic programming (NLI) techniques, relaxation exercises, meditation, stretching and strengthening exercises such as yoga, and others. If you've tried some or all of these and are still experiencing difficulty in managing your anger, you may wish to discuss with your doctor the possibility of pursuing some sort of medication therapy for anger management.
Things to Ask
Consulting with your physician is important for several reasons. First of all, if your anger problem has arisen suddenly and you have no previous history of difficulties with anger management, the possibility of physical causes such as tumors, hormonal imbalances, neurological problems, and other potential problems should be eliminated. Second, it's important to understand that all anger management medication therapies don't work the same for all people. For example, Zoloft, an antidepressant often prescribed for anger management, may not work as well for you as another medication. Your doctor is in a position to help you review the available options and make an informed decision. You should definitely not begin medication therapy for anger management or for any other reason without consulting your physician and being aware of possible side effects and negative interactions with other drugs you may be taking.
Medications for Anger Management Therapy
Some antidepressants have been shown to be effective in helping individuals who are having anger management difficulties. Zoloft and other serotonergic antidepressants (medicines that help the body maintain higher levels of serotonin, an important neurotransmitter) are often prescribed as a part of anger management medication therapy. Other medications in this class include Prozac, Paxil, and Celexa. Just because one medication of this type doesn't help, another still might.
Part of the Picture
Even if you and your doctor decide to begin anger management medication therapy, you should still view it as only a part of your overall anger management strategy. The drugs can help your body get to a more favorable biochemical balance, but cognitive and behavioral changes are still important to help you move into a healthier, more productive lifestyle. Be sure to ask your doctor to recommend self-help resources or psychological counseling professionals who can help you address your anger management therapy program on other fronts. You can get a grip on your anger management problems.
