The aim of Anger Awareness week is to identify anger as a disturbing social issue that needs to be addressed effectively. Anger awareness week will help people to find the right tools to help them calm themselves down when they find themselves getting angry or when others around them are showing anger.
As individuals we are often faced with anger either from our own emotions or by actions and emotions from other people. These feelings and emotions can cause a tremendous amount of damage to ourselves or others around us, this is reflected in the increase of domestic violence incidents, youth crime, classroom disturbances and stress related illnesses.
By participating in Anger awareness week people will be encouraged to think about how anger impacts their lives and ways in which they can deal with this powerful emotion. Believe it or not, anger, if channeled properly, can be a creative, rather than destructive force.
Christmas is one of the most stressful times of the year for many people. The British association of anger management have put together a ‘keep your cool this yule kit’ which contains useful hints and tips on what to do should you find your anger levels rising. If you want more information or to view the ‘keep your cool this yule’ for further information, use this link
What do you do when you experience anger?
The most important thing to do is get some help and understanding of what and how you can deal with your anger.
You can find out more information about anger management in Plymouth and the region here
There are several ways to deal with anger, here are some tips from the mayo clinic
1. Think before you speak
In the heat of the moment, it’s easy to say something you’ll later regret. Take a few moments to collect your thoughts before saying anything — and allow others involved in the situation to do the same.
2. Once you’re calm, express your anger
As soon as you’re thinking clearly, express your frustration in an assertive but nonconfrontational way. State your concerns and needs clearly and directly, without hurting others or trying to control them.
3. Get some exercise
Physical activity can help reduce stress that can cause you to become angry. If you feel your anger escalating, go for a brisk walk or run, or spend some time doing other enjoyable physical activities.
4. Take a timeout
Timeouts aren’t just for kids. Give yourself short breaks during times of the day that tend to be stressful. A few moments of quiet time might help you feel better prepared to handle what’s ahead without getting irritated or angry.
5. Identify possible solutions
Instead of focusing on what made you mad, work on resolving the issue at hand. Does your child’s messy room drive you crazy? Close the door. Is your partner late for dinner every night? Schedule meals later in the evening — or agree to eat on your own a few times a week. Remind yourself that anger won’t fix anything and might only make it worse.
6. Stick with ‘I’ statements
To avoid criticizing or placing blame — which might only increase tension — use “I” statements to describe the problem. Be respectful and specific. For example, say, “I’m upset that you left the table without offering to help with the dishes” instead of “You never do any housework.”
7. Don’t hold a grudge
Forgiveness is a powerful tool. If you allow anger and other negative feelings to crowd out positive feelings, you might find yourself swallowed up by your own bitterness or sense of injustice. But if you can forgive someone who angered you, you might both learn from the situation and strengthen your relationship.
8. Use humour to release tension
Lightening up can help diffuse tension. Use humour to help you face what’s making you angry and, possibly, any unrealistic expectations you have for how things should go. Avoid sarcasm, though — it can hurt feelings and make things worse.
9. Practice relaxation skills
When your temper flares, put relaxation skills to work. Practice deep-breathing exercises, imagine a relaxing scene, or repeat a calming word or phrase, such as “Take it easy.” You might also listen to music, write in a journal or do a few yoga poses — whatever it takes to encourage relaxation.
10. Know when to seek help
Learning to control anger is a challenge for everyone at times. Seek help for anger issues if your anger seems out of control, causes you to do things you regret or hurts those around you.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/anger-management/art-20045434