Audio Version

Are you worried about being constantly irritable?  It is important to not ignore it. Good Therapy says that chronic or persistent irritability may also indicate a medical or emotional condition.

Feeling irritable from time to time can be natural and healthy. If you are feeling irritable more often than not and it is impacting your functioning you may be experiencing more than what is healthy. 

Your irritability may be of concern if:

• You find yourself feeling more irritable more often than not
• It feels you are quick to anger and find yourself snapping at others
• What normally didn’t irritate you is now causing you to feel extremely irritable or on edge
• You feel  you are quick to anger and/or outbursts
• Your anxiety level is continuing to increase

While irritability itself is not a diagnosable condition, it can be a symptom of one such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, etc. Chronic irritability deserves attention as it may be an indicator of something more.

Can Counseling Help Decrease Irritability? 

Counseling can help in the following four ways:

1. Counseling can provide a diagnosis. When you see a licensed therapist or counselor they can assess your symptoms and provide a diagnosis. When you have accurately assessed your symptoms you can find a treatment plan that will work for you. 

1. Help you identify your triggers. Once you begin to address your irritability you can identify what your triggers are for feeling this way. When you know what triggers your feelings and responses you can begin to learn new ways to react. 

1. Improve responses. It is natural to feel irritable when presented with irritating experiences. While your feelings may be understandable, your reactions may cause problems for you. Counseling can help you to learn healthier coping mechanisms and skills that can help you feel more in control. Approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help you identify thinking patterns that don’t work for you and teach you skills to reframe your thinking and improve the way you react. 

1. Improve your overall health. Irritability is a sign that your nervous system is hyper stimulated, making it overly reactive and sensitive. Aside from the fact that being constantly irritable can wreak havoc on your relationships at home, work, or school, it can also contribute to poor health. According to FamilyDoctor.org , “Your body responds to the way you think, feel, and act. This is one type of ‘mind/body connection.’ When you are stressed, anxious, or upset, your body reacts in a way that might tell you that something isn’t right. For example, high blood pressure or a stomach ulcer might develop after a particularly stressful event, such as the death of a loved one.”

Irritability is not a simple concern, particularly if it is a sign of a more serious condition. It deserves attention before it weakens your health, destroys your relationships, and affects the quality of your life. Counseling is an ideal first step to overcome irritability. Carolina Counseling Services – Sanford, NC contracts with skilled therapists who can help. Call today to schedule your first appointment. Online counseling sessions are available!