How to cope with anger

Anger has the capability to destroy relationships, careers and your happiness. We all experience anger – it’s normal and healthy. Problems arise when anger becomes our go-to reaction and we fail to take control of it.

If you think you may have a problem with anger, the following tips may help you understand the emotion better:

Form a better relationship with anger

Pushing anger away can be emotionally damaging, making it all the more problematic when it eventually does surface. Instead of hating it and avoiding it, acknowledge that anger is present in your life and commit to doing whatever it takes to stop it taking over.

Get to know your triggers

Your triggers may involve certain people, situations or even internal states (such as stress). Identifying your triggers is the first step to controlling your anger. Visualise how you’ll react differently next time the trigger surfaces.

Focus on your physical sensations

When you start to feel angry, take a breath and concentrate on how you are feeling physically. Anger has a strong physical component. Often, taking this breath to stop and think about how it feels is enough to stop the thought processes that normally follows.

Don’t get stuck in guilt or regret

If you do react badly when angry, try not to let guilt eat you up. Instead, look to learn from the experience and have compassion for yourself. Realise that you’re now trying to make better choices.

Be willing to get support

If anger is a persistent problem for you, it may be useful getting outside help. There are many options for anger management treatment including talking therapies and hypnotherapy.