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Anxiety causes me to lash out

User Profile: me06
me06 March 13th, 2018

When my anxiety levels are high I get really irritable and angry at tiny things and end up being rude to those around me. I was just home for spring break and I was feeling extra anxious so I lashed out at my family for literally the smallest things and I feel really awful that I was acting this way. I know anxiety doesnt excuse this behavior and I want to fix it. Does anyone have advice on doing so?

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User Profile: WhiteWolf96
WhiteWolf96 March 17th, 2018

@me06

The same happens with me! I hate it when it happens. I have broken glass doors with my fist, yelled awful names to family members, and I feel so ashamed after I do it, but I can't control myself.

My therapist says that it's because I'm naturally passive, because of my social anxiety, which means I avoid conflict at all costs and don't defend myself. But when my anxiety reaches a certain point, I go from passive to agressive in an instant. My therapist says that it is normal for me to have that strong opposite reaction. The solution would be to try and practice to be assertive instead of passive on daily basis. She said assertive is in between agressive and passive and it's about saying what you need to say to protect yourself without the intent to hurt other people's feelings.

It made much sense for me and took some of my guilt away. I don't know if this will help you in any way, but that's my experience. I hope the best for you and that you can overcome these feelings.

User Profile: gloriousSunrise61
gloriousSunrise61 March 20th, 2018

I am having this issue as well. I'm not sure what exactly to do about it. I hope someone has some answers.