Is It Anger, or Something Else?

What if your anger isn't really anger. My name is Dr. Andrea Zorbas. I'm a clinical psychologist in San Francisco, California, and let's unpack what's underneath that anger.

Anger is often a mask. So here's what could be really going on. Anger is considered a secondary emotion. It often covers up deeper feelings like hurt, which are things like feeling rejected, ignored, or disrespected. It often covers up a feeling, a secondary emotion like fear. Anxiety is about losing control or uncertainty. And lastly, it can be a secondary emotion for stress and overwhelm and burnout can feel and can manifest as frustration or irritability.

So how do we recognize what's beneath the anger? Ask yourself, what else am I feeling right now? Notice any physical sensations such as tightness in your chest, which may signal anxiety not just anger. Give yourself time before reacting and really it might mean taking a deep breath.

What are some healthier ways to express emotions? You can journal or talk it out, physical movement like walking or stretching or going to the gym and things like mindfulness to process emotions without judgment.

If your anger feels overwhelming, Therapy Now SF can help you explore what's underneath and manage the emotions in a healthier way.