Anger, Hostility, and Violent Behavior

Preparing For Your Appointment

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment

You can help your health professional diagnose and treat your condition by being prepared to answer the following questions:

• How long have you felt you had a problem with anger, hostility, or violent behavior?
• What makes you feel better or worse? What have you tried to control your feelings or actions?
• Is your use of alcohol or illegal drugs leading to your feelings of anger or hostility or violence? Are you using alcohol or drugs as an attempt at "self-medication" to relieve your symptoms?
• Have you or anyone else in your family ever been diagnosed with depression or other mental problems?
• Do work or relationship issues contribute to your feelings of anger? Think about these issues before your visit.
• Have you experienced any recent major life changes, such as a move, new job, divorce, marriage, or retirement?
• What medicines do you use, both prescription and nonprescription?
• Do you have access to guns or other violent weapons?
• Do you have any health risks?

While waiting for your appointment, it may be helpful to keep a diary of your feelings.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: January 18, 2008
Medical Review:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.