Anger and Chronic Pain

Anger Is Normal

If you're angry about having chronic pain, you're not alone. Anger is one of the most common emotional responses to chronic pain. It's a natural reaction to losing abilities, facing skepticism, and dealing with a condition that may not have been caused by anything you did. Understanding and managing anger is important for well-being and pain management.¹

Why Chronic Pain Causes Anger²

Loss of abilities and roles
Feeling helpless
Not being believed
Treatment failures
Impact on relationships
Financial strain
Unfairness of situation
Uncertainty about future

Targets of Anger

Self (for having pain, limitations)
Healthcare providers
Family and friends
Insurance companies
Employers
The situation/universe

How Anger Affects Pain³

Increases muscle tension
Heightens nervous system arousal
May amplify pain perception
Disrupts sleep
Damages relationships (support)
Can lead to unhealthy behaviors

Unhealthy Anger Expression

Aggressive outbursts
Chronic hostility
Suppressing all anger
Taking it out on loved ones
Self-destructive behavior

Healthy Anger Management

Acknowledge It

Anger is valid and understandable
Don't judge yourself for feeling it
Name the emotion

Express It Appropriately

Talk to supportive people
Write in journal
Physical activity (when possible)
Creative expression

Work Through It

Identify what's underneath anger
Often grief, fear, hurt
Process the losses
Challenge unhelpful thoughts

Techniques That Help

Deep breathing
Taking a timeout
Progressive muscle relaxation
Mindfulness
Cognitive restructuring
Assertive communication

When to Seek Help

Anger feels out of control
Affecting relationships significantly
Leading to aggression
Accompanied by depression

References

Fernandez E, Turk DC. The scope and significance of anger in the experience of chronic pain. Pain. 1995;61(2):165-175.
Okifuji A, Turk DC, Curran SL. Anger in chronic pain: investigations of anger targets and intensity. J Psychosom Res. 1999;47(1):1-12.
Burns JW, Quartana PJ, Bruehl S. Anger inhibition and pain: conceptualizations, evidence and new directions. J Behav Med. 2008;31(3):259-279.