We all know that anger is an emotion experienced by all – it’s unavoidable. So, what are the choices when reacting to it? Well, we can express it appropriately or inappropriately (good or bad). Counselors don’t like those two words when describing behavior…
We can express, suppress, or use calming techniques.
First of all, there isn’t a lot of research in regards to anger management but most experts agree that learning how to express our anger appropriately is by far the best way to deal with this thing we call aggression. Next, we can suppress it by holding it in, take a time out before converting it into something more constructive, and third, we can calm down and let the feelings subside. We need at least two of the three I believe, to be successful in controlling harmful aggression.
First, learning how to articulate feelings in a way to effect positive change takes time, but it is the most effective because it offers resolution. So, what do we do while we are learning to communicate? Well, one of the other two methods should help in the process. Personally, I would prefer the calming method which could be relaxation techniques, exercise, and good diet to start.
Of course, if there is a drug and alcohol problem lurking about, it is during this process that it should be addressed and if identified as part of the problem, treatment should be sought out. After all, drugs and alcohol are really mood altering substances and can play havoc on complex wiring such as our brain has.
