When frustration turns into aggression (intermittent explosive disorder)

Frustration is a universal emotion that we all experience. Like other emotions of the negative pole, such as fear or sadness, it is necessary since it is an indicator that something is not going well and must be changed. Also, like other emotions, it can cause us to behave aggressively.

However, at this point it is necessary to identify, within the emotional state of frustration, the degree of intensity with which it manifests itself and the way in which it is regulated. Some people feel disproportionate frustration regarding what triggers it and, in addition, they respond to it in an exaggerated way, with explosions of anger and aggression: they suffer from what is called intermittent explosive disorder.

If you know someone or you yourself suffer from anger attacks and find yourself frustrated suddenly or most of the time, perhaps you can relate to what we are going to describe to you below:

What is intermittent explosive disorder

It is a disorder in which impulse control and emotional regulation are affected. Furthermore, we can say that it is characterized by two fundamental factors.

The person experiences recurring episodes in which he or she experiences explosions of anger. States in which lack of control and aggression are shown, with a threatening attitude that is manifested by shouting and, often, physical damage to the objects around them, and even to animals or people. It is not something specific, but rather an uncontrolled emotional state, which can be recurring over time.These episodes of anger are not proportional to the cause that triggers them. They are usually caused by a situation that the subject interprets as negative, but that other people would handle easily, such as a small argument, a job that is not going well, criticism from a co-worker… In some cases the cause may even be imagined, such as feeling attacked in an argument when in reality there is no attack or because of imagined jealousy. They are all “reasons” that unleash strong aggressiveness.

Intermittent explosive disorder is an obstacle

Not managing anger has devastating consequences in the lives of those who suffer from this disorder and those around them, since Controlling aggressive impulses is essential for living in society.

Most people with this disorder have problems in their personal relationships, whether family, partner or friends. Living near a person with this disorder is practically living in a state of continuous tension: it is not possible to predict when he or she will explode, which makes The people who surround him and love him end up moving away, for fear of the explosions and their consequences.

This disorder also affects the work life of those who suffer from it. Since the person does not know how to control outbreaks or prevent them, frustrating situations that we all suffer in the workplace, such as arguments with colleagues or criticism from superiors, will end up triggering an outburst of anger sooner or later, which generates a bad work environment and a possible dismissal if the situation is frequent.

Due to treatment, poor management of emotions and poor channeling to the outside can produce very adverse effects on the person who suffers from it and on their immediate environment. In extreme cases it can lead to isolation.

Why do some people have aggressive outbursts?

Some studies indicate that Aggressive outbursts are a consequence of a serotonin deficiency in the brain, as well as lesions in the prefrontal cortex. The prefrontal cortex is precisely the part of the brain that is related to impulse control and is responsible for higher thinking.

Although this suggests biological causes, another aspect to highlight is that the majority of people who suffer from this disorder have lived in environments where one or more people showed explosions of anger.. This suggests that, in addition to a biological predisposition, the learning we do as children to regulate emotions is very important.

If a child grows up perceiving excessive anger and violence as valid instruments to achieve goals, It is expected that these behaviors will continue over time. and they feed each other. It is necessary for minors to witness examples of healthy conflict resolution and frustration management, in which patience and dialogue prevail.

In addition, it is important to help children understand their frustration and how to handle it, especially if they have a tendency to make complaints through tantrums, seeking professional help if necessary. In this way, we will be saving that little one a lot of future problems.

Intermittent explosive disorder can be treated

It is never too late to learn more about our emotions and how to manage them. Through cognitive-behavioral therapy, these people are able to identify the first signs of a rabies outbreak. so they can stop it before it grows and causes serious damage. To stop them, they are given a series of alternatives, such as getting out of the situation that has caused the frustration. This output can be mental (diverting attention) or physical.

Other aspects that help are practicing relaxation techniques that reduce the general state of anxiety and try to reduce the tone of general activation by channeling that energy through the practice of some sport. In some cases, medication that regulates serotonin may also help.

He mindfulness It also stands out for being a technique that benefits impulse control. Taking distance from our thoughts and emotions allows us to think before acting. We go from an automatic reaction to a manual reaction. If we let ourselves be carried away by anger, Thanks to mindfulness, we will be able to choose our response and not be a victim of our impulses.

Conclusion

The important thing is that by becoming aware that we have a problem and seeking help, we can learn to manage anger and improve our lives and those around us. This goes for people who have a disorder, but also for us in whatever extraordinary situations they may be.

Reflecting and being honest with ourselves will help us become aware of the problem. This is, without a doubt, one of the most important steps, since from there, the next step is to seek professional help and start working on our evolution. Little by little, we will be able to see how With work, perseverance and motivation, anger will be under control.

Do you know someone who suffers from this disorder or do you think you suffer from it yourself? How does this affect your daily life?

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