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Anger is a normal, useful emotion that provides helpful information and feedback, such as when someone has violated a personal boundary. However, frequent angry outbursts and an inability to control one’s rage might indicate that a person has anger issues. Here are some strategies to help someone who has difficulty regulating their anger—and some tips on dealing with their rage.

Signs of Anger Issues

According to McInnis, anger management issues can manifest in many different ways. A person might trouble regulating their anger if they:

• Often seem irritated, either with themselves or other people
• Is prone to snapping when asked simple questions
• Seems angry or tense all the time, with no identifiable trigger
• Behaves aggressively
• Tends to hold a grudge and entertains thoughts about exacting revenge
• Hurts themselves or others verbally, emotionally, or physically
• Gets extremely irritated at slight annoyances or petty things, often beyond what seems like a normal reaction
• Is intolerant of others’ mistakes or weaknesses
• Gets angry at the memory of things that upset them
• Is often sullen and sulking
• Expresses rage by slamming doors, punching walls, and other aggressive behavior
• Gets violent when angry, hurting themselves or others around them
• Becomes inappropriately angry

Impact of Anger Issues

Anger can seem effective in the short term; for example, someone who gets mad at their kids and shouts at them may feel satisfied if it means the kids do their chores. However, in the long term, anger issues can take a toll on the person’s health, relationships, work, and overall quality of life.

On Relationships

McInnis outlines some of the ways that anger issues can affect a person’s relationships:

• Friends, family members, and coworkers may feel like they have to walk on eggshells when dealing with a person who has anger issues.
• Explosive anger issues can make it hard for others to trust the person, speak honestly to them, or feel comfortable around them, therefore negatively impacting their relationships.
• The person’s anger issues can lead them to feel socially isolated because people don’t want to be around this type of behavior.
• Aggressive and violent tendencies can put the person’s family and friends at risk for harm and make them feel unsafe.

These factors can disrupt the harmony in the person’s family and social circle, and make it hard for them to hold a job.

On Physical Health

Anger is an emotional and physiological state that is accompanied by a surge of energy and certain biological changes in the body. These changes include:

• Muscle tension
• Rapid heart rate
• Increased blood pressure
• Surge of hormones such as adrenaline

Frequent, intense, or prolonged bouts of anger can take a toll on the person’s physical health. According to McInnis, the long-term physical effects of uncontrolled anger can include:

• Headaches
• Anxiety
• High blood pressure
• Increased risk of heart disease

How to Help Someone Who Has Anger Issues

If someone close to you has anger management issues, you may be concerned about them and want to help. McInnis shares some steps you can take to help them.

Urge Professional Help

Encourage the person to see a mental healthcare professional, such as a therapist. Many therapists specialize in anger management and anger issues. There are also different forms of therapy that can help treat anger, such as:

• Cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT): This is the most common type of therapy for anger-related issues. It involves identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. For instance, a therapist may take a person with anger issues through scenarios that would normally trigger anger, working with them to recognize their overreaction and develop healthier coping skills. 
• Family therapy: This form of therapy can help address issues caused by anger directed at one’s family. It can help people resolve issues with their partner, children, parents, and siblings, helping to improve communication and promote understanding and forgiveness.
• Internal family systems therapy (IFS): The family systems theory maintains that there are different parts of the self (just as there are different parts of a family). Some parts of the self may become affected by trauma. The goal of IFS is to give a person access to all parts of themselves so they are better able to manage emotions.
• Psychodynamic therapy: This form of therapy can help the person better understand and address the root causes of their anger.
• Sensorimotor psychotherapy: The sensorimotor approach to psychotherapy is body-oriented, which means it focuses on how trauma and emotions become stored in the body. This type of therapy uses movement to help heal trauma and release emotions such as anger.
• Somatic experiencing (SE): Somatic experiencing also focuses on the body and mind connection. It is sometimes used to help people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) regulate emotions by using body awareness and by thinking about positive memories.

Explore Anger Management Resources

There are several support groups and anger management programs, both in-person and online, that can be helpful. Identify one that could be appropriate for the person and encourage them to join it.

There are also several books, videos, podcasts, and other resources designed to help people with anger issues. You can share them with the person and encourage them to explore them, to help them improve their communication skills.

Suggest a Health Checkup

It can also be helpful for the person to get a health checkup and SPECT brain scan, which can identify any potential organic reasons contributing to the anger management issues.

Coping With Someone Who Has Anger Issues

McInnis suggests some strategies that can help you deal with a person who has anger issues:

• Stay calm and try not to lash out in response, even if it’s difficult.
• Give the person space to self-regulate while letting them know that you’re open to talk when you’ve both calmed down.
• Set emotional and physical boundaries in order to look after your own well-being. Communicate your limits to them before and after heated conflicts, rather than attempting to do so when things are heated.
• Avoid saying things like “You always ruin everything and you’re never going to change.” Stick to “I” statements instead. Try using the phrase, “I’m feeling ____ because ____.” For example, you can say “I felt sad and scared when you yelled at me.” Let them know that you care about them and be authentic about the impact of their anger on you and the relationship.
• Follow up an “I” statement with how you’d like to feel instead and how you’d like to be treated. For instance, you can say “I want to feel ___ and I request ___.”
• Avoid making statements like “Why are you angry, it’s not a big deal,” or “Stop being so emotional/sensitive/dramatic.”
• When you are listening to a loved one with anger management issues, remind yourself it’s not your responsibility to “fix it.” You do not need to change yourself in any way to try to avoid or stop their anger.
• If the situation escalates, call a time-out and take some space from each other. It takes at least 20 minutes for the nervous system to regulate and calm down and for chemical levels associated with anger to return to normal levels. If you each take a time out, do so for at least 20 minutes, during which time you should try not to replay the incident in your mind. Try taking a walk if possible.
• Prioritize your safety. Create a safety plan if needed, including who you can call and where you can go to leave a dangerous situation. If necessary, seek support for domestic violence. If your partner or family member lashes out in anger, this can constitute physical, emotional, verbal, and/or psychological abuse.
• Leaving or ending a relationship is always an option if your loved one has trouble controlling their anger.

The nicotine patch is a popular and effective quit-smoking aid. Research has found that using a form of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) such as the patch increases a person’s chances of successfully quitting by about 50% to 60%.

Due to the health risks of consuming nicotine-containing products, and the high potential for addiction, many people are searching for ways to decrease their use of these products. Nicotine replacement therapy products are a popular choice for decreasing nicotine dependence. Due to its ease of use and efficacy, the nicotine patch has become one of the most popular NRTs.

The nicotine patch was approved by the FDA in 1991. From 1992 to 1996, the patch was available in the U.S. by prescription only. Since 1996, it has been available over the counter (without a prescription). Other forms of medicinal nicotine products include gum, lozenges, inhalers, and a nasal spray.

This article discusses the efficacy of nicotine patch use and some of its benefits. It also covers some of the side effects you might experience and other things to consider when using the nicotine patch.

How Does the Nicotine Patch Work?

The nicotine patch works by administering a steady amount of nicotine through the skin throughout the day.

The goal of nicotine patch use is to wean the body off of nicotine gradually (without exposing it to the other harmful ingredients in cigarettes).

This often lessens the difficulty of quitting nicotine “cold turkey.” Someone who is addicted to nicotine may also find that the patch makes the physical nicotine withdrawal symptoms more tolerable.

Is the Nicotine Patch Effective?

There are seven first-line medications and NRTs that consistently have been found to increase long-term abstinence rates:

• The medications are bupropion (Zyban) and varenicline (Chantix).
• The NRTs include nicotine gum, lozenges, inhalers, nasal spray, and a patch. All five NRTs have about the same level of efficacy.

Research suggests that the most effective way to quit smoking is to combine a long-acting nicotine patch with another short-acting type of nicotine replacement therapy such as a lozenge, gum, or nasal spray. Such methods, when used for 12 weeks or longer, significantly increase your chances of quitting nicotine successfully.

A word of caution: E-cigarettes come with a higher risk of lung injury and vaping products should be avoided as a smoking cessation product.

How to Use the Nicotine Patch

The following steps explain how to use the nicotine patch; however, each person is unique. It’s best to consult with a doctor to be sure you’re using the patch in the best and safest way for you.

• Put the patch on clean skin. You may put it on the upper arm, chest, shoulder, or back. Try to be sure the skin is clean and free of oils, hair, scarring, or irritation.
• Wash your hands. Once you apply the patch, wash your hands of any residual nicotine.
• Some patches may be worn for up to 24 hours. But, you may find that you prefer taking it off before bed and putting a new one on in the morning.
• Put the patch in a different place each day. This helps to avoid skin irritation.
• Discard the patch. Fold the patch in half so that the adhesive (the sticky side) is facing inward. Be sure that pets and children don’t have access to the patch, which may cause illness.
• Call Poison Control in the event of accidental ingestion or overdose (1-800-222-1222).

Talk to a doctor or healthcare professional to develop a plan for you to stop using the nicotine patch.

Health Risks of Nicotine Use

Nicotine use is linked to health risks including increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, and narrowing of the arteries.

It is also highly addictive, which is why quitting cigarettes leads to withdrawal symptoms. The use of NRTs such as the patch can help you gradually decrease your nicotine use and minimize the severity of withdrawal symptoms.

Tobacco products contain varying levels of nicotine. For example, traditional cigarettes contain 10–20 mg of nicotine, and about 1–2 mg of that is absorbed by your body when you smoke. In contrast, Juul, the most popular brand of vape, contains 50 mg of nicotine.

Nicotine Patch Dosage

Nicotine patches typically come in three different dosage strengths: 21 mg, 14 mg, and 7 mg. These numbers refer to the amount of nicotine in the product.

The 21 mg patch is usually recommended as a starting point for people who smoke a pack of 20 cigarettes or more daily. From there, the person steps down to lower dose patches following package instructions until the final step down to no patch (i.e., no nicotine) at all.

The nicotine patch resembles a square beige or clear bandage. The size depends on the dose and brand but generally is between 1 and 2 inches square.

The nicotine patch should be applied once a day. Manufacturers usually recommend wearing the patch between 16 and 24 hours a day, depending on what you’re comfortable with.

Nicotine Patch Side Effects

There are a few potential side effects when using the nicotine patch.

• Overnight nicotine patch use may disrupt sleep and cause vivid dreams. If this becomes a concern, remove the patch before bed and put a fresh one on the next morning.
• Some people experience itching, burning, or tingling when they first apply a new patch. This side effect usually goes away within an hour and is a result of nicotine coming in contact with the skin.
• Some people may experience redness or swelling at the patch site for up to 24 hours.
• Other symptoms include diarrhea, dizziness, headache, upset stomach, or vomiting.
• More serious side effects may include abnormal heartbeat or rhythm, difficulty breathing, seizures, severe rash, or swelling.

Be sure to consult a doctor before using the nicotine patch and if any of the above symptoms are severe or do not go away.

Contraindications

You should always talk to a healthcare provider before using the nicotine patch. Be sure to mention if you have any illness or medical conditions since you should not use the patch if you have certain conditions. Some of these include:

• Allergies to tapes, bandages, or medicines
• Chest pains or a recent heart attack
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Kidney or liver disease
• Skipped or irregular heartbeats
• Skin rashes or skin diseases
• Stomach ulcers
• Thyroid disease

Smoking While Using the Nicotine Patch

Do not smoke or vape when using nicotine patches as you run the risk of overdosing on nicotine. Some of the signs of a nicotine overdose may include:

• Bad headaches
• Blurred vision
• Cold sweats
• Confusion
• Convulsions
• Dizziness, weakness, or fainting
• Drooling
• Hearing problems
• Upset stomach
• Vomiting

If you suspect an overdose, take the patch off and seek medical attention immediately. Nicotine overdose is rare but can be fatal.

Other Nicotine Replacement Therapies

Other types of NRT include gum, lozenges, inhalers, and nasal spray.

Nicotine Gum or Lozenges

Like nicotine patches, nicotine gum or lozenges can be bought without a prescription. The gum comes in lower dosages than the patches (2mg and 4mg strengths). What you eat and drink affects how the gum works, so don’t eat or drink 15 minutes before or during use.

Similar to the nicotine patch, you wean off of nicotine gum after a period of time—generally, six to 12 weeks, though you may use it longer.

Nicotine gum may cause side effects that the patch doesn’t, such as mouth sores, throat irritation, and jaw discomfort.

Nicotine Inhaler

You must have a prescription for a nicotine inhaler. The inhaler delivers the nicotine to the nose and throat, and from there, nicotine enters the bloodstream. Some people prefer inhalers because it involves inhaling vapor, which is similar to inhaling cigarette smoke. Inhalers are the most expensive form of NRT.

The recommended dose with nicotine inhalers is between 4 to 20 cartridges a day. Use is not recommended beyond six months.

This form of NRT should be used carefully around children and/or pets as the form of nicotine it contains is very dangerous.

Side effects may include coughing, throat irritation, runny nose, and upset stomach.

Nicotine Nasal Spray

You must have a prescription for nicotine nasal spray. One dose is considered two sprays, one in each nostril. Some people use eight doses per day initially, but it’s important to note that you can’t exceed 40 doses per day. It is generally prescribed for periods of three months but should be used no longer than six.

This form of NRT should be used carefully around children and/or pets as the form of nicotine it contains is very dangerous.

Side effects may include irritation of the nasal passages, runny nose, watery eyes, throat irritation, and coughing.

Final Thoughts

Nicotine is highly addictive and quitting can be hard. If you are thinking about quitting smoking, vaping, or using other tobacco products, nicotine patches are a great tool to help you decrease nicotine cravings and minimize withdrawal symptoms. Success rates are much higher with the use of NRT, and even better in combination with some form of counseling.

Gordon Allport was a pioneering psychologist often referred to as one of the founders of personality psychology. He rejected two of the dominant schools of thought in psychology at the time, psychoanalysis and behaviorism, in favor of his own approach that stressed the importance of individual differences and situational variables.

Today, he is perhaps best remembered for his contributions to the trait theory of personality. In a review of the most influential psychologists of the 20th century, Allport was ranked as the 11th most eminent psychologist.

Gordon Allport’s Early Life

Gordon Allport was born in Montezuma, Indiana, on November 11, 1897. He was the youngest of four brothers and was often described as shy, but also hard-working and studious. His mother was a schoolteacher, and his father was a doctor who instilled in Allport a strong work ethic.

Allport operated his own printing business during his teen years and served as his high school newspaper editor. In 1915, Allport graduated second in his class and earned a scholarship to Harvard College, where one of his older brothers, Floyd Henry Allport, was working on a PhD in psychology.

After earning his bachelor’s degree in philosophy and economics from Harvard in 1919, Allport traveled to Istanbul, Turkey, to teach philosophy and economics. After a year of teaching, he returned to Harvard to finish his studies. Allport earned his PhD in psychology in 1922 under the guidance of Hugo Munsterberg.

Meeting Sigmund Freud

In an essay entitled “Pattern and Growth in Personality,” Allport recounted his experience of meeting psychiatrist Sigmund Freud. When he was 22, Allport traveled to Vienna, Austria, to meet the famous psychoanalyst. After entering Freud’s office, he sat down nervously and told a story about a young boy he had seen on the train during his travels to Vienna.

The boy, Allport explained, was afraid of getting dirty and refused to sit where a dirty-looking man had previously sat. Allport theorized that the child had acquired the behavior from his mother, who appeared to be very domineering. Freud studied Allport for a moment and then asked, “And was that little boy you?”

Effect on Psychology

Allport viewed the experience as an attempt by Freud to turn a simple observation into an analysis of Allport’s supposed unconscious memory of his own childhood. The experience would later serve as a reminder that psychoanalysis sometimes tended to dig too deeply. On the other hand, Allport believed that behaviorism did not dig deeply enough.

At this point in psychology history, behaviorism had become the dominant force in the United States, and psychoanalysis remained a powerful influence. Allport’s approach to human psychology combined the empirical influence of behaviorists with the acknowledgment that unconscious influences could also play a role in human behavior.

Gordon Allport’s Career

Allport began working at Harvard in 1924 and later left to accept a position at Dartmouth. By 1930, he returned to Harvard, where he would remain for the rest of his academic career.

His work as a teacher also had a profound effect on some of his students, including Stanley Milgram, Jerome S. Bruner, Leo Postman, Thomas Pettigrew, and Anthony Greenwald.

Allport’s Trait Theory of Personality

Allport is perhaps best known for his trait theory of personality. He began developing this theory by going through a dictionary and noting every term he found that described a personality trait. After compiling a list of 4,504 ​different traits, he organized them into three different trait categories, including:

• Cardinal traits: These are traits that dominate an individual’s entire personality. Cardinal traits are thought to be quite rare.
• Central traits: Common traits that make up our personalities. Traits such as kindness, honesty, and friendliness are all examples of central traits.
• Secondary traits: These are traits that are only present under certain conditions and circumstances. An example of a secondary trait would be getting nervous before delivering a speech to a large group of people.

Allport’s Contributions to Psychology

Gordon Allport died on October 9, 1967. In addition to his trait theory of personality, he left an indelible mark on psychology. Rather than focusing on the popular psychoanalytic and behavioral approaches during his time, Allport instead chose to utilize an eclectic approach.

If you are interested in learning more about his theories, consider reading some of his best known works, including “Personality: A Psychological Interpretation” (1937), “Becoming: Basic Considerations for a Psychology of Personality” (1955), or “Pattern and Growth in Personality” (1961).

Depression can have many causes, all of which are complex and can be difficult to understand. In some cases, feelings of depression can be clearly connected to an experience in someone’s life, such as a tragic loss or a violent event. Other people may be aware they have a family history of mental illness and, as a result, may not be caught off guard by a diagnosis of depression. 

However, some people become depressed and don’t know why. They may feel they don’t have a “reason” to be depressed—especially if they perceive their life as being “good” or “easy” compared to others. The pressure to explain or justify how they feel can make depression worse and may prevent them from getting the necessary treatment. 

If you’re wondering, “Why am I depressed?” and have no real answers, it’s helpful to know some potential causes of depression. We also share treatment options so you can start to feel better again.

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The Lived Experience of Depression 

A person who is in good physical health, employed, has a safe home to live in, enough money to care for themselves and their family, has supportive friends, and hobbies may struggle to comprehend why they feel persistently sad, angry, or irritable.

In the absence of a clear “trigger” such as the death of a loved one, a divorce, or the loss of a job, they could feel that it doesn’t make sense for them to feel depressed. This leaves them to wonder, “Why am I depressed?” without giving them any real answer.

Perceptions of Depression

The presence of these things in their lives might make someone feel that they have “no right” to be unhappy. If a person’s family doesn’t have a history of depression, they may assume that they couldn’t be genetically prone themselves.

Likewise, a person may look back at their childhood and become confused and concerned if they don’t find a specific event that would “justify” the depression they are experiencing as an adult. 

When they realize the people around them have not experienced depression, a person can feel very alone. They may start to worry that others will think they don’t appreciate what they have if they appear sad or down. They might also worry about being a burden to others—or being seen as a liability. 

Concerns About Stigma

They may worry that their boss won’t think of them as capable of doing their job if they know they have depression. When young people in school are depressed, they may be wrongly labeled “slackers” or told that they are not “trying hard enough.” 

When a person with depression internalizes these messages, they may come to believe they aren’t smart or capable—and depression has a way of reinforcing those false beliefs by making someone have a low opinion of themselves. 

In relationships, people with depression may not talk about their experiences because they are afraid others won’t understand. They may worry that their spouse, family, and friends will stop loving them. They might fear the people they care about will blame them for the feelings they have. 

They could also be worried that their loved ones will blame themselves if they are unable to help, which can make a person who is depressed feel guilty or like a burden.

Other Reasons People Hide What They Are Feeling

Parents who are experiencing depression may worry about how their children or family could be affected. They might even fear that they will be seen as “unfit” parents if they admit to having feelings of depression. 

The pressure to justify depression can be overwhelming, but remember the old saying that you can’t judge a book by its cover. The way someone else’s life appears to be may not show the whole truth.

People who are depressed may work very hard to try to hide how they really feel. On the outside, they can look and even act as though they feel okay and that everything is fine.

Whether you’re experiencing depression yourself or you care about someone who is, it can be helpful to reframe how you think about the condition. Start by focusing on the causes of depression (which are backed by facts) rather than focusing on reasons (which are subjective and relative).  

The Importance of Focusing on Depression “Causes” Not “Reasons” 

Researchers are still learning about all the different mechanisms that drive depression. There are many causes and, in most cases, it’s a combination of factors that ultimately cause a person to become depressed. 

Some factors that contribute to depression include:

• Brain chemistry: The “chemistry” of depression is not well understood, but researchers do know that an imbalance of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters can happen in anyone, even in the absence of an obvious trigger.
• Non-modifiable risk factors: Some influences, such as brain structure, genetic predisposition, and environmental exposures, are not something a person can control.
• Modifiable risk factors: Risk factors that fall under the category of lifestyle choices are considered modifiable, but the extent to which an individual can do so will depend on their ability and how much support they have. 

Depression can make it much more challenging to address factors that might be contributing to it, such as substance use or diet. As much as it is a mental illness, depression can also be physical. Symptoms like chronic pain and fatigue can make it difficult for people to take on lifestyle modifications such as exercise, even if they want to and believe they could help.

To make these changes (and stick with them) people need to have the right tools and a good deal of support. To get treatment, a person with depression needs to feel safe talking about how they are feeling. 

Perceptions Can Affect Treatment and Outcomes

Looking at the causes helps people (both those with depression and those who want to support them) understand that being depressed is a medical condition, not a choice.

Depression can be, needs to be, and deserves to be treated. However, there are many ways to treat the condition. What works for one person may not work for another, and some people have to try many different options before finding something effective. 

It’s also not unusual for people to need to try different treatments throughout their lives to manage depression, as the condition can change and evolve in response to changes in a person’s life (both physically and emotionally). 

If you are depressed and don’t understand why, you may recognize that you need help and may want it, but might also be struggling with the feeling that you don’t “have the right” to ask for help. Know this: Every person with depression deserves treatment. 

Will Depression Treatment Help?

It’s hard to predict which treatments will work best for someone with depression. How well a specific treatment works also depends on the type of depression a person is experiencing. It’s important to work closely with your care provider and/or a mental health care professional (such as a psychiatrist, especially if you take medications) as you are exploring different treatment options. 

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is one of the first-line options used to treat depression. While there are many types of psychotherapy available, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a frequently used and effective option. It addresses the negative thoughts that contribute to depression and can help you see that your thoughts might be contributing to your symptoms.

Online therapy options are also available. These can provide a convenient and sometimes more affordable way to access treatment for depression. Such programs can also be a useful supplement to in-person therapy, medications, and other treatment tools.

Medications

Antidepressant medications such as Prozac (fluoxetine) and Zoloft (sertraline) are commonly prescribed for depression. Medications are often used in combination with psychotherapy.

For many people, using therapy and antidepressants together can effectively treat depression. However, these interventions alone may not adequately address symptoms for every person with depression.

Other Treatment Options

In these cases, other types of treatment such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can be used. ECT involves the brief application of an electrical pulse to the scalp in order to produce a seizure. Research has shown that the brain’s response to such stimulation can be rapid and ECT may be able to treat symptoms that are resistant to medication and therapy.

Newer depression treatments include various types of brain stimulation therapy, such as vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). These treatments may be recommended for someone whose symptoms haven’t responded to medication or therapy.

While it can be exhausting, frustrating, time-consuming, and in some cases costly to try different methods of treating depression, it’s important to work to find the option that will be the most effective for you. Depression (and its treatment) is a complex process that’s not one-size-fits-all. 

Understanding a Loved One’s Depression 

If someone you care about is dealing with depression, you may not be sure how to support them. If your attempts to help are rejected or don’t seem to do any good, you may become frustrated and impatient. 

If you feel tempted to tell someone who is depressed to “try harder” or “just snap out of it,” it may be a sign that you are overwhelmed or experiencing caregiver burnout. If this happens, it’s important that you pause and take time to reflect on your feelings. You won’t be able to help someone else until you have taken care of your own emotional needs.

When you’re worried about a person you care about, the feelings of fear you have may come across as anger when you’re talking to them. Even if you aren’t mad or speaking in anger, depression can make it harder for a person to really hear what you are saying. They may interpret your words as being dismissive, accusatory, disappointed, or any number of things that aren’t necessarily accurate. 

When you’re speaking to your loved one with depression, keep this in mind if it seems like your conversations are full of miscommunication. Although you may want to remind them of all the “good things in life” or point out that “it could be worse,” platitudes such as these aren’t usually helpful for a person with depression to hear. 

Avoid Comparing Feelings

Comparing their pain to someone else’s (or your own) may be your way of trying to give your loved one some perspective, but it may come across as though you are minimizing their experience. If the person is already struggling to understand why they are depressed, comments like these can reinforce feelings of guilt. In response, a person may “close up.” 

If someone you care about is depressed, especially if they are struggling with having no reason for it, one of the most important things you can do for them is to be a compassionate and active listener. 

This doesn’t mean you should put your emotional needs second or withhold your own feelings. Keeping the lines of communication open helps the person you care for feel safe to discuss what they’re going through and express the desire for help when they’re ready. If you are worried about them, maintaining a “lifeline” can reassure you of their safety and well-being. 

How do researchers investigate psychological phenomena? They utilize a process known as the scientific method to study different aspects of how people think and behave.

When conducting research, the scientific method steps to follow are:

1. Observe what you want to investigate
2. Ask a research question and make predictions
3. Test the hypothesis and collect data
4. Examine the results and draw conclusions
5. Report and share the results 

This process not only allows scientists to investigate and understand different psychological phenomena but also provides researchers and others a way to share and discuss the results of their studies.

What Is the Scientific Method?

What is the scientific method and how is it used in psychology?

By knowing the steps of the scientific method, you can better understand the process researchers go through to arrive at conclusions about human behavior.

Scientific Method Steps

While research studies can vary, these are the basic steps that psychologists and scientists use when investigating human behavior.

The following are the scientific method steps:

Step 1. Make an Observation

Before a researcher can begin, they must choose a topic to study. Once an area of interest has been chosen, the researchers must then conduct a thorough review of the existing literature on the subject. This review will provide valuable information about what has already been learned about the topic and what questions remain to be answered.

The relevant information collected by the researcher will be presented in the introduction section of the final published study results. This background material will also help the researcher with the first major step in conducting a psychology study: formulating a hypothesis.

Step 2. Ask a Question

Once a researcher has observed something and gained some background information on the topic, the next step is to ask a question. The researcher will form a hypothesis, which is an educated guess about the relationship between two or more variables

In order to formulate a good hypothesis, it is important to think about different questions you might have about a particular topic.

You should also consider how you could investigate the causes. Falsifiability is an important part of any valid hypothesis. In other words, if a hypothesis was false, there needs to be a way for scientists to demonstrate that it is false.

Step 3. Test Your Hypothesis and Collect Data

Once you have a solid hypothesis, the next step of the scientific method is to put this hunch to the test by collecting data. The exact methods used to investigate a hypothesis depend on exactly what is being studied. There are two basic forms of research that a psychologist might utilize: descriptive research or experimental research.

Descriptive research is typically used when it would be difficult or even impossible to manipulate the variables in question. Examples of descriptive research include case studies, naturalistic observation, and correlation studies. Phone surveys that are often used by marketers are one example of descriptive research.

Correlational studies are quite common in psychology research. While they do not allow researchers to determine cause-and-effect, they do make it possible to spot relationships between different variables and to measure the strength of those relationships. 

One of the major advantages of this method is that it allows researchers to actually determine if changes in one variable actually cause changes in another.

While psychology experiments are often quite complex, a simple experiment is fairly basic but does allow researchers to determine cause-and-effect relationships between variables. Most simple experiments use a control group (those who do not receive the treatment) and an experimental group (those who do receive the treatment).

Step 4. Examine the Results and Draw Conclusions

Once a researcher has designed the study and collected the data, it is time to examine this information and draw conclusions about what has been found. Using statistics, researchers can summarize the data, analyze the results, and draw conclusions based on this evidence.

So how does a researcher decide what the results of a study mean? Not only can statistical analysis support (or refute) the researcher’s hypothesis; it can also be used to determine if the findings are statistically significant.

Based on these observations, researchers must then determine what the results mean. In some cases, an experiment will support a hypothesis, but in other cases, it will fail to support the hypothesis.

So what happens if the results of a psychology experiment do not support the researcher’s hypothesis? Does this mean that the study was worthless?

Just because the findings fail to support the hypothesis does not mean that the research is not useful or informative. In fact, such research plays an important role in helping scientists develop new questions and hypotheses to explore in the future.

After conclusions have been drawn, the next step is to share the results with the rest of the scientific community. This is an important part of the process because it contributes to the overall knowledge base and can help other scientists find new research avenues to explore.

Step 5. Report the Results

The final step in a psychology study is to report the findings. This is often done by writing up a description of the study and publishing the article in an academic or professional journal. The results of psychological studies can be seen in peer-reviewed journals such as Psychological Bulletin, the Journal of Social Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and many others.

The structure of a journal article follows a specified format that has been outlined by the American Psychological Association (APA). In these articles, researchers:

• Provide a brief history and background on previous research
• Present their hypothesis
• Identify who participated in the study and how they were selected
• Provide operational definitions for each variable
• Describe the measures and procedures that were used to collect data
• Explain how the information collected was analyzed
• Discuss what the results mean

Why is such a detailed record of a psychological study so important? By clearly explaining the steps and procedures used throughout the study, other researchers can then replicate the results. The editorial process employed by academic and professional journals ensures that each article that is submitted undergoes a thorough peer review, which helps ensure that the study is scientifically sound.

Once published, the study becomes another piece of the existing puzzle of our knowledge base on that topic.

Key Terms

Before you begin exploring the scientific method steps, here’s a review of some key terms and definitions that you should be familiar with:

• Falsifiable: The variables can be measured so that if a hypothesis is false, it can be proven false
• Hypothesis: An educated guess about the possible relationship between two or more variables
• Variable: A factor or element that can change in observable and measurable ways
• Operational definition: A full description of exactly how variables are defined, how they will be manipulated, and how they will be measured

Uses for the Scientific Method

The goals of psychological studies are to describe, explain, predict and perhaps influence mental processes or behaviors. In order to do this, psychologists utilize the scientific method to conduct psychological research. The scientific method is a set of principles and procedures that are used by researchers to develop questions, collect data, and reach conclusions.

Psychologists and other social scientists regularly propose explanations for human behavior. On a more informal level, people make judgments about the intentions, motivations, and actions of others on a daily basis.

While the everyday judgments we make about human behavior are subjective and anecdotal, researchers use the scientific method to study psychology in an objective and systematic way. The results of these studies are often reported in popular media, which leads many to wonder just how or why researchers arrived at the conclusions they did.

Examples of the Scientific Method

Now that you’re familiar with the scientific method steps, it’s useful to see how each step could work with a real-life example.

Say, for instance, that researchers set out to discover what the relationship is between psychotherapy and anxiety.

• Step 1. Make an observation: The researchers choose to focus their study on adults ages 25 to 40 with generalized anxiety disorder.
• Step 2. Ask a question: The question they want to answer in their study is: Do weekly psychotherapy sessions reduce symptoms in adults ages 25 to 40 with generalized anxiety disorder?
• Step 3. Test your hypothesis: Researchers collect data on participants’ anxiety symptoms. They work with therapists to create a consistent program that all participants undergo. Group 1 may attend therapy once per week, whereas group 2 does not attend therapy.
• Step 4. Examine the results: Participants record their symptoms and any changes over a period of three months. After this period, people in group 1 report significant improvements in their anxiety symptoms, whereas those in group 2 report no significant changes.
• Step 5. Report the results: Researchers write a report that includes their hypothesis, information on participants, variables, procedure, and conclusions drawn from the study. In this case, they say that “Weekly therapy sessions are shown to reduce anxiety symptoms in adults ages 25 to 40.”

Of course, there are many details that go into planning and executing a study such as this. But this general outline gives you an idea of how an idea is formulated and tested, and how researchers arrive at results using the scientific method.

Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) is a prescription medication used to treat opioid use disorder(OUD). While it doesn’t produce psychoactive effects, Suboxone is still an opioid—which means that you will experience withdrawal symptoms if you try to quit it suddenly, aka “cold turkey.” Your doctor may recommend tapering your dose over time to minimize withdrawal symptoms.

How Long Does Suboxone Withdrawal Last?

If you are planning to stop taking Suboxone, it can be helpful to know what to expect in terms of how long withdrawal symptoms might last.

Specific withdrawal symptoms may occur at different times, so while some might fade quite quickly, others may linger for a bit longer. For example, muscle aches and joint pain typically decline after the first 72 hours, while feelings of restlessness and anxiety may last for up to a week. Other physical cold-like symptoms, such as a runny or stuffy nose, generally disappear after 10 days.

However, you may experience feelings of general discomfort and opioid craving for a few months. Talk to your doctor about what you can do to manage these continued feelings. Your doctor can prescribe medications that may help, or you might try counseling, support groups, and lifestyle changes to help manage continued discomfort and cravings that you might experience. 

Symptoms of Suboxone Withdrawal

If you are using Suboxone as directed for the treatment of opioid addiction or to treat pain, you can expect to experience withdrawal symptoms if you miss a dose or try to quit abruptly.   

Physical Symptoms of Withdrawal from Suboxone

Suboxone causes most of the physical symptoms typical of opioid withdrawal. These include:

• Chills
• Goose bumps
• Muscles aches and pains
• Nausea or vomiting  
• Runny nose
• Stomach cramps or diarrhea
• Sweating
• Tremors or twitching
• Teary eyes

If you take Suboxone to treat opioid addiction, then your withdrawal symptoms should be less severe than what you have experienced in the past.

Psychological Symptoms of Suboxone Withdrawal

Some psychological symptoms of Suboxone withdrawal include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Restlessness

Additionally, the psychological challenges associated with withdrawal are not always caused by withdrawal itself. Withdrawal can trigger the return of mental health problems that were muted by drug use, such as anxiety and depression.

After withdrawal, people are also forced to take a good look at the damage that their drug addiction has wrought. It is not unusual to struggle with issues of guilt and regret.

Figuring out how to get your life back on track can feel overwhelming and emotionally exhausting. That’s why it’s so important to reach out for help.

Suboxone Withdrawal Timeline

The timeline of Suboxone withdrawal is also a bit different from withdrawal from other opioids. Suboxone is a long-acting opioid, which means withdrawal symptoms can take several days to appear. 

Sometimes, however, psychological symptoms can linger for several weeks. This may include depression and an inability to feel pleasure.  

Coping With Suboxone Withdrawal

You can avoid the symptoms of withdrawal from Suboxone by working with your doctor to taper down your dose. Tapering means gradually reducing your dose over time.  

Some studies have shown that overall success (measured by a period of prolonged abstinence) tends to be better with a shorter, seven-day taper. However, one study found that many people attempt to self-taper without medical supervision, which is associated with poor success rates. 

Other studies have found that withdrawal symptoms are managed best by a slow, flexible tapering schedule. With a flexible taper schedule, your doctor can slow the dose reduction if you experience any uncomfortable symptoms.  

If you are still struggling with withdrawal despite the Suboxone taper, your doctor may recommend one or more support medications.

Withdrawal Medication Treatment

Lucemyra (lofexidine hydrochloride) is a medication approved by the FDA in May 2018. It is the first non-opioid medication approved to treat the symptoms of withdrawal. Lucemyra works by reducing the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter believed to play a role in withdrawal symptoms.

Lifestyle Changes

If you are struggling with Suboxone withdrawal it may help to drink more fluids than usual to prevent dehydration. It’s also important to eat a well-balanced diet to keep vitamin and electrolyte levels up.

Work closely with a doctor, counselor, or physical therapist to develop new ways of coping with pain during and after withdrawal. Practice relaxation techniques (meditation, listening to music, etc.,) to help you deal with anxiety and agitation. Try mild to moderate exercise to help you deal with restlessness.

Find something else to focus on during withdrawal, such as a television show, book, or hobby. Get support and encouragement from a local community group or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meeting. 

Suboxone Relapse Potential

Opioid withdrawal is often unpleasant, but it is very rarely dangerous. When it comes to Suboxone, complications are even more unlikely. Still, it is important to work closely with a medical professional during your Suboxone taper.

Relapse is common among people with opioid use disorders and is generally considered a normal part of the recovery process. But people who have been taking Suboxone are typically further along on the path to recovery.

A relapse at this point can be both discouraging and dangerous because your tolerance will have dropped substantially. Relapsing after your tolerance has decreased can lead to a dangerous or potentially fatal opioid overdose.

Quitting Suboxone During Pregnancy

If you are quitting Suboxone because you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, you should definitely talk to a doctor.

Suboxone is not recommended during pregnancy, but buprenorphine without naltrexone is. Depending on your situation, your doctor may recommend an accelerated taper or a switch to buprenorphine or methadone, which have been proven safe during pregnancy.

Long-Term Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder

If you have been using Suboxone to treat your addiction, you are already ahead of the game. Suboxone allows you to develop a long-term treatment strategy without being distracted by the discomfort of withdrawal. 

Treatment Plan

After Suboxone, a long-term treatment plan should focus on preventing future relapse. Talk therapy plays a very important role in relapse prevention. Once you come off Suboxone, you will have beaten your physical dependence on opioids, but not the psychological aspects of addiction. 

Talk therapy can help you figure out why you began using drugs in the first place. You can learn to identify specific situations and feelings that have led you to use in the past. Identifying these triggers helps you recognize and eliminate the negative thought patterns that cause you to make poor decisions. 

There are many ways to explore talk therapy. You might consider working one-on-one with a psychologist or mental health counselor in private practice. You can meet with a mental health or addiction counselor at a local community clinic. Or you can explore group therapy programs, which are offered at many hospitals, clinics, and addiction treatment facilities.