Expert: Joyce A. Anthony - 5/31/2009

Question
QUESTION:  I am 30 yrs old, a mother of 5 and have custody of my niece. All my life I have felt like a outcast. I have been molested for years, but I have accepted that as a messed up part of my growing experience and forgave them. But what really scares me is that I flip out in a rage without any warning. At times I can feel them about to happen then I remove myself, now it is getting worse to where everything is a big conspiracy against me. My soon to be husband is out cheating on me and just everything possibly that can go wrong is going to in my head. What can I do?? I have took prescriptions and nothing.

ANSWER: Hello, Jessica:

You have taken the first step--admitting you have a problem with anger.  It also sounds like you may have some psychotic issues where paranoia is concerned?  That is often present during manic episodes.

Some suggestions:  You did not state what medications you have tried.  Seroquel works wonders on both paranoid thoughts and anger. Maybe you could talk with your doctor about trying this for a couple months to see if it makes a difference.

Also, there are anger management classes in most cities.  Call a local mental health agency and inquire.  It will be worth the effort.  You may also consider a weekly or bi-weekly therapy session with a counselor to help get to the reason behind all the anger and help in controlling it.

         Joyce A. Anthony

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION:  thank you for replying back with a answer. I have tried seroquil and it made the situation worse with the paranoia and the anger. I was barely able to function at work due the fact that in my head everyone was plotting against me. And at home the slightest noise and movement drove me into a frenzy of crazyness. I have tried depakoe lepresso and these have done nothing to help. But mental health issues run through my family.

Answer
Jessica:

Have you been given a diagnosis?  Maybe trying Seroquel and another anti-psychotic together will work. Often it takes several different tries to find the combination and dosage that will help. Please look into the anger management classes and talk with a doctor about trying something else.

         Joyce A. Anthony