It is human instinct to feel anger, especially when put in a situation that is potentially a threat. Therefore, learning how to control your anger is vitally important in a number of ways. Having extreme reactions to anger can hurt your physical health as well as the health of those around you. Basically anger is an emotion and though you can not control your emotions, you do have control over your anger.
Throwing items at the cashier because you waited in line longer than expected is not appropriate behavior. It is an extension of inappropriate behavior as the result of your anger. Feeling frustrated in this situation is a normal reaction. However, becoming extremely angry is not a normal reaction. If you are unable to control your anger, learning effective coping skills is highly recommended for behavior control.
When you are in a circumstance that may trigger your anger, it is important to avoid becoming angry. Stepping away for a brief time will give you a chance to rethink the situation. Taking time to consider alternative behavior can avoid an angry outburst. Should you already feel angry, try to release it with a positive behavior. Doing a physical activity, such as running or going for a walk, will release your built up energy.
Relaxing is vital when angry. An effective way to relax is through your breathing. Concentrate fully on how you are breathing to take your mind off of the issue at hand. Breathing through your nose for a count of five, hold it while counting to five, and count to five while breathing out through your mouth.
Having built up anger and/or continuously getting angry can be extremely harmful. If you find yourself getting angry a lot, try to journal your thoughts. Each night write in a journal, your days experiences. When you are relaxed, it allows you to get a brighter picture of your behavior. Writing in a journal will also allow you to find a pattern to your anger.
Learning how to control your anger can be accomplished with anger management skills acquired through therapy. Seeking out professional help for anger issues is a sign of wanting to control your behavior. Speaking with a therapist trained to deal with anger will help you find the real reason for the anger. The inability to control your anger could stem from a number of unresolved issues. A professional will be able to not only teach you how to cope but will help you to find the answers to why you are angry.
