If you cannot deal with your anger issues, speak to your GP. They may be able to refer you to another service for support.

Different types of treatment to manage anger are summarised below, with links to more information.

Counselling

Certain types of counselling or talking therapies can help you explore the causes of your anger so that you can understand and work through them.

Counselling involves talking with someone who can help you find your own solutions to your problems and gain a greater understanding of your feelings and actions. For example, feelings of anger may be related to unresolved issues you may have with your parents, childhood, partner or your current place in the world.

Counselling is usually provided over several weeks or months.

Read more about counselling.

Cognitive behavioural therapy

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is based on the theory that most unwanted thinking patterns, emotions and behaviours are learned over a long period of time.

CBT aims to identify the unhelpful thinking that is causing your unwanted feelings and behaviour and to learn to replace this thinking with more balanced thoughts.

A number of professionals use CBT, including clinical psychologists, occupational therapists, psychiatrists, nurses, counsellors and social workers. It is practised by clinical psychologists within the NHS, although availability varies across the UK.

Many private therapists use CBT. The British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies and the UK Council for Psychotherapy hold registers of accredited practitioners in the UK.

CBT is usually provided over several weeks or months.

Read more about cognitive behavioural therapy.

Anger management programmes

A typical anger management programme may involve one-to-one counselling and working in a small group. The programmes may consist of a one-day or weekend course. In some cases, it may be over a couple of months.

Speak to your GP to see if they offer anger management courses in your area.

The structure of the programme can differ depending on the provider, but most programmes involve using CBT techniques as well as counselling.

Domestic violence programmes

This type of programme may last up to 18 months and is necessary if you cannot control your temper and are violent to members of your family. The focus of this programme is to provide help and support so you will be able to take responsibility for your actions and understand how it affects others.

You will need to co-operate with the programme requirements, including tackling any other issues you may have, such as reducing your alcohol intake.

Co-operating with the requirements could be a condition of your parole or probation and failing to do so could have legal implications.

Counselling

Counselling is guided discussion with an independent trained person, to help you find your own answers to a problem or issue.

Psychiatrists

Psychiatrists are doctors who treat mental and emotional health conditions, using talking and listening methods.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is the treatment of mental and emotional health conditions, using talking and listening.