Irritability is a symptom of anger, but being irritable cannot be exclusively attributed to being angry. There are many reasons a person might display signs of extreme annoyance, anger being just one of them.
Irritability can be a by-product of myriad mental and physical conditions such as:
* Fatigue
When people are overtired they often become irritable. That does not mean anger is the underlying cause of their symptoms of irritability. Their fatigue can be the result of physically demanding work or insufficient rest.
* Physical discomfort
Pain can cause a person to be irritable. Many physical conditions that induce pain are not always visible to an observer. If a person were suffering from an arthritis flare-up, heartburn or any other temporary or chronic health condition, he could be extremely irritable, but not in the least angry.
* Mental discomfort
People who are suffering from depression or anxiety might display outward signs of irritability. Sometimes individuals who are in mental distress cannot verbalize their feelings and adopt an irritable countenance as a defense mechanism.
* Frustration
When individuals are frustrated with people or events in their lives, that frustration could potentially manifest itself in an irritable demeanor. Sometimes situations are out of a person’s control to change and that can lead to a high level of frustration. If an individual had a chronically ill child, or was laid off from his job, the frustration could cause him to behave in an irritable manner.
There are so many valid reasons for a person to react in an irritable way; too much pressure, disappointment, demand being thrust upon them and myriad other scenarios one could conjure.
When you, or someone you know, behaves in an irritable manner for an extended length of time, for seemingly no apparent reason, it is wise to evaluate life situations, including work environment, relationships and personal satisfaction.
If you are unable to raise awareness regarding the root of your irritability on your own, consider seeking professional help. Unresolved anger, or any other of the possibilities for irritability, experienced over a long period of time, can be detrimental to health and well-being.
Persons who are irritable and stressed are prime candidates for heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and other serious health issues.
Chronic irritability can also rob you from experiencing any joy and satisfaction with life.
If you, or a loved one, is in a constant state of irritability, do not chalk it up to a symptom of anger and ignore the issue. Seek medical intervention to rule out physical causes.
If there is no underlying medical condition, your doctor can put you in touch with a competent professional therapist who can help you sort out what is causing your irritability.
Whether your problem is unresolved anger, or some other physical or mental issue, being proactive in combating your distress will benefit your health and well-being and allow you to enjoy a more fulfilling life.
