Anger, Hostility, And Violent Behavior: Preparing For Your Appointment

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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.

Last updated:	January 18, 2008
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine, William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer