ADHD often leads to anger, aggression, and negative behaviors due to chemical imbalances in the brain. Managing frustration levels, reducing stimulation, and teaching reduction techniques can help. Medications and anger management skills, such as assertiveness and conflict management, can also be effective.
The most common behavior associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is anger. ADHD affects both children and adults, and many people with the disorder have problems with hostility, aggression, and negative behaviors. ADHD behaviors are caused by chemical imbalances in the brain. In some cases, they’re a byproduct of secondary symptoms, including loss of motivation, worry, frustration, boredom, anxiety, low self-esteem, lack of sleep, and feelings of hopelessness. People typically show both chemical imbalance symptoms and secondary symptoms when they have ADHD.
ADHD frustration is the most common aspect that leads to anger issues. It’s important to learn how ADHD and anger management can coexist. The first step would be to try to learn how to control frustration levels. This can be done by establishing strictly rigid routines, including set bedtimes and limited time to watch television and use gaming devices. However, too many changes at once can lead to new problems, so try to avoid making many at once.
Another method is trying to avoid excessive stimulation. Limit the number of people around at the same time. This will help with the ADHD sufferer’s feeling of being overwhelmed, while also limiting the noise. Above all, try not to be too pushy in getting things done; offer breaks often.
The second step would be to teach reduction techniques. This includes counting back, deep breathing, positive affirmations, and using pleasant imagery. When this can be accomplished, switch to verbal expression of feelings rather than displays of anger. This tip is also helpful for people who live with those with ADHD and anger, because these people can be just as frustrated dealing with the problem.
There are many other anger management skills in conjunction with ADHD. The assertiveness skill helps the person to act less aggressively and more appropriately when he asks for something he wants. Skills like relaxation, problem solving, and conflict management are also helpful when dealing with ADHD and anger. Another component of anger management is moral training, which helps teach a person that physical aggression should only be used for self-defense.
While these different techniques are used to treat those with ADHD, a doctor will usually also prescribe medications to help. There are many types of medications available, including psychostimulants and non-stimulants. If the medicine is taken correctly and coping skills are used correctly, those with ADHD and anger can learn to manage both issues, although overusing the drug can lead to addiction problems.
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