Anger Issues Test: 10 Questions to Find Out If Emotions Are Interfering with Your Life

Understanding Different Types of Anger

Not all anger looks the same. Understanding what type of anger you experience most often can guide effective treatment and coping strategies.

1. Chronic Anger

Long-lasting resentment or irritability that persists for weeks or months. It may not be tied to a specific event.

2. Passive-Aggressive Anger

Indirect expression of hostility—like sarcasm, sulking, or backhanded compliments.

3. Volatile or Explosive Anger

Sudden, intense outbursts of rage that may seem out of proportion to the situation. This is often seen in intermittent explosive disorder.

4. Self-Directed Anger

Anger turned inward. It can result in self-blame, negative self-talk, or even self-harm.

5. Justified or Moral Anger

Anger in response to injustice or mistreatment. While valid, it can still be harmful if expressed destructively.

When Is Anger a Mental Health Concern?

Anger itself isn’t a mental illness, but chronic, uncontrollable anger may signal or contribute to other mental health conditions, such as:

• Depression (especially when anger is turned inward)
  
• Bipolar disorder, particularly during manic episodes
  
• Anxiety disorders, where irritability is a common symptom
  
• Intermittent explosive disorder (IED), characterized by repeated episodes of impulsive aggression
  
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), where anger can be a trauma response
  

If anger is disrupting your relationships, work, or self-esteem, it may be time to seek support.

How Anger Affects Physical Health

Chronic anger doesn’t just impact your mood. It can damage your physical health over time.

Unchecked anger is associated with:

• High blood pressure
  
• Increased risk of heart disease
  
• Digestive issues and ulcers
  
• Weakened immune response
  
• Increased cortisol (stress hormone) levels
  

These physiological changes can create a feedback loop, where physical discomfort further escalates emotional reactivity. Learning to regulate your anger can significantly improve your overall well-being.

What If Your Anger Test Score Is High?

If your results suggest significant anger issues, don’t panic. There are effective strategies and supports available. Consider these next steps:

1. Talk to a mental health professional: A licensed therapist can help identify root causes and build a personalized treatment plan.
   
2. Learn evidence-based anger management skills: Techniques like deep breathing, cognitive restructuring, and communication training are often part of anger management therapy.
   
3. Join a support group: Whether in-person or online, support groups offer connection, insight, and accountability.
   
4. Try online therapy or telehealth: Online therapy platforms can help you access help quickly and privately.
   
5. Track your triggers: Keep a journal of situations that spark anger. This awareness is key to change.
   

Who Should Take an Anger Issues Test?

Consider taking this test if:

• You frequently regret how you react when angry
  
• Your relationships suffer due to how you express anger
  
• You experience physical symptoms during or after anger episodes
  
• You’ve been told by others that you “have anger issues”
  
• You’re unsure if your level of anger is normal or something more
  

Early recognition and intervention can help prevent long-term consequences.

You Are Not Alone

Taking an anger issues test is a brave step. It means you’re curious, self-aware, and open to growth. If your anger has been getting the best of you, it doesn’t have to stay that way.

Whether you’re dealing with explosive reactions, quiet resentment, or something in between, support is available. With the right tools and the right people in your corner, you can regain control, protect your well-being, and improve your most important relationships.

Resources and Next Steps

Explore these helpful Recovery.com resources:

• Anger management treatment near you
• The Ultimate Guide to Finding Mental Health and Addiction Treatment
• How Do I Know if I Need Mental Health and Addiction Treatment?
• What Kind of Treatment Do I Need? Understanding Levels of Care for Addiction and Mental Health Treatment
  

External Resources

• American Psychological Association – Controlling Anger Before It Controls You
  
• National Institute of Mental Health – Mental Health Conditions
  

FAQs

Q: Can an anger issues test diagnose a disorder?

A: No. Anger tests are screening tools that provide insight—not medical diagnoses. If you’re concerned about your score, follow up with a licensed mental health professional.

Q: Is anger always a bad thing?

A: Not at all. Anger is a natural emotion that signals something is wrong. It becomes a problem when it’s frequent, intense, or destructive.

Q: How do I know if I need anger management?

A: If anger negatively affects your relationships, work, or physical health—or if it feels uncontrollable—anger management strategies or therapy may help.

Q: Are anger issues linked to other mental health conditions?

A: Yes. Anger often co-occurs with conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. A professional assessment can clarify this connection.

Q: Can online therapy help with anger problems?

A: Absolutely. Many therapists offer online anger management programs or telehealth sessions that are effective and accessible.

Q: What’s the difference between anger and aggression?

A: Anger is an emotion. Aggression is a behavior. It’s possible to feel angry without acting aggressively—emotional regulation is the bridge.