Friend seems to be mentally troubled, or just an angry person?

Question

Are these happen to be common symthoms of a mental disorder:
* He gets angry very easily at the drop of a hat. It is hard to predict what will tick him off. He would scream and yell at people till people walk away.
* He tends to misinterpret what people tell him and then gets very angry at them if they say he misunderstood them.

As a result, he gets himself in all sorts of trouble (like loosing job, businesses and friends). This is why I care. My thinking is, maybe he doesn't understand the depth of the problem. He just keeps thinking it's the things around him that cause all his troubles.

Should I try and tell him that he might want to see a councellor? Does that seem like a reason enough to go see a councellor?
Maybe he's just an angry person and it should be none of my business, and this is totally normal.

Please refrain from witty comments about him being sexually frustrated, if you can.

Is there any way to explain there is no shame to see a phsychiatrist? I mean, I have no problem with it myself, it's just like having a stomach ache and seeing a doctor.

Answer 1

I think it best that your friend see a counsellor or therapist as he may have some emotional issues, but I honestly think something else is the problem.

My brother, sister, and myself have a learning disability that sounds a lot like what your friend has. What happens is that we hear what someone says to us, but somewhere between the ear and our brain, we process it incorrectly, and miss what someone has said or mistake what was actually said. It is EXTREMELY frustrating, and my brother used to get explosive anger. It's NOTHING to be ashamed about. It can be made easier.

What helped all of us out was making sure that when we talked to people that we stood face to face with the person and were able to watch their face and lips. Having my back turned to someone when they were talking or having their back turned to me caused a lot of confusion.

I think your friend should get some help because I think it could be a combination of both things. Good luck!

*edit*

I as well have bipolar disorder, and it's hard because society makes us think negatively about mental illness, especially with men. There is no shame in seeing a psychiatrist. If he had another physical problem he would see a doctor. There is no difference between mental illness or any other physical disorder. It's just the part of the body that is affected. I don't know if it breaks TOS, but there is an excellent workbook (that you can get at any major bookstore) that deals with this. If you or him are interested, send me a message, and I'll let you know.

Answer 2

He may need to see a psychiatrist or a counsellor. There is no shame in seeing these professionals as getting help early is imperative. A professional can render the proper advice and medication if necessary.

Answer 3

He sounds like a friend of mine, who is bi polar. It seems like he would benefit from seeking professional help. In the meantime, monitor his behavior and make sure he isn't doing anything harmful to himself. If he flies off easily, he won't take this well. Be prepared with knowledge and make him understand that you want what's best for him.

Answer 4

Yes, he definitely has anger issues, and should see a counselor. Just know if you suggest it to him, he may turn his anger on you.......