Is Anger a Symptom of Depression?
Yes, anger can be a symptom of depression, although it’s less commonly recognized in mood disorders than sadness or fatigue. Research from Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America shows that anger and irritability are more connected to depression than most of us realize. Think of irritability as the lesser-known cousin of sadness in depression—it’s there, but it doesn’t always get the attention it deserves.
Chronic irritability, the kind that sticks around like an unwelcome houseguest, is a big predictor of future depression. On the flip side, episodic irritability pops up as sudden mood shifts during a depressive episode.
Why does this matter? Recognizing irritability as part of depression—not just as a bad mood or temper helps people get the right kind of support. If this sounds familiar to you or someone you know, it’s worth digging a little deeper into what’s really going on.
How Does Depression Cause Anger?
Depression causes anger by disrupting emotional regulation. When you’re depressed, your brain struggles to process negative emotions like sadness or shame. This can lead to a buildup of unresolved anger, known as suppressed anger, which may eventually spill out as irritability, angry outbursts, or even physical aggression.
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