How to Get Help With Anger Issues

Anger is a natural emotion, yet it can wreak havoc in the lives of individuals, their families and their communities when not managed properly. Some people turn anger in on themselves, others become violent. A violent episode can be the catalyst for a person to realize that he needs help in dealing with his anger. More intractable problems occur when a person does not even realize that he has a problem with anger, but continues to blame the rest of the world for the difficulties he encounters. Suppressed anger can cause depression, unhappiness and illness.

Instructions

• 1

  Review your childhood and think about the ways anger was expressed in your family. In some homes, anger is taboo, causing people to suppress their feelings and becoming fearful of expressing anger. For others, anger was expressed at home, in extreme ways. Reflect on how your childhood experiences have influenced how you deal with anger.

• 2

  Practice coping techniques. Learn relaxation exercises. Breathing deeply has a calming effect on the body and mind. Breathe deeply in through your nose, drawing the breath down below your naval, and holding it for a count of 5. Release the breath slowly. Form the habit of doing this several times a day, and learn the feeling of relaxation. Recall this feeling and practice the breathing when you find yourself becoming angry. Yoga classes are also another good way to learn relaxation exercises. Exercising regularly also helps your body release tension and stress, as does spending time outdoors in natural environments.

• 3

  Consult a doctor if your anger has caused you to lose control. Ask to be referred to an anger management group or other support group. Assertiveness training is particularly helpful if you are a person who bottles up anger and then lets it go in an inappropriate way. Seeking professional help is nothing to be ashamed of -- it is, in fact, a sign of strength and pragmatism and can improve your life and that of those around you.