It’s not unusual for people who have panic disorder, agoraphobia, or another anxiety disorder to experience frustration because of their condition. You may blame yourself or others for your condition, further escalating your sense of anger and resentment. Sometimes this frustration can develop into anger—anger toward yourself, anger at your situation or anger toward others.
Researchers have conducted studies on what they term “anger attacks” in depressed and anxious individuals. They conclude that there are certain similarities between anger attacks and panic attacks. The following describes the symptoms of anger attacks and panic attacks, followed by an explanation of the differences between the two.
If you feel you are experiencing anger attacks, talk to your doctor or mental healthcare provider. In addition to developing an anger management plan, your doctor may prescribe medications to help reduces your symptoms. Certain medications, such as antidepressants, can be used to effectively treat panic attacks also work for managing anger attacks. Attending ongoing therapy can is also another viable option. Through therapy, you can learn to better control your anger and cope with your panic attacks in a healthy way. By following through with treatment, you can expect to have both issues in check.
American Psychiatric Association. "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th ed.," 2000 Washington, DC: Author.
Fava M. and Rosenbaum, J.F. (1999). Anger Attacks in Patients With Depression. J Clin Psychiatry, 60 (suppl 15): 21-24.
Fava, M., Anderson, K. and Rosembaum, J.F. (1990). “Anger Attacks”: Possible Variants of Panic and Major Depressive Disorders. Am J Psychiatry, 147:867-870.