Rachael Kane

ANGER MANAGEMENT

Anger is a normal human emotion and when it is managed properly it is not a problem. Everyone gets angry, and mild anger can sometimes be useful to express strong feelings and deal with situations. However, if anger is expressed in harmful ways, or persists over a long period of time, then it can lead to problems in relationships at home and at work and can affect the overall quality of your life. This Tip Sheet can help you understand anger and learn better ways to handle and express it. Anger may be related to other problems such as an injury to the brain, or drug or alcohol use. It is important to get professional help for these problems.

WHAT IS ANGER?

Anger is an emotion that can range from mild annoyance to intense rage. It is a feeling that is accompanied by biological changes in your body. When you get angry, your heart rate and blood pressure rise and stress hormones are released. This can cause you to shake, become hot and sweaty and feel out of control. When people have angry feelings, they often behave in angry ways too. Angry behaviours include yelling, throwing things, criticising, ignoring, storming out and sometimes withdrawing and doing nothing.

DO I HAVE AN ANGER PROBLEM?

Do you find that you often or always feel angry?
Find that insignificant issues are making you mad?
Feel like your anger is out of control?
Feel aggressive towards your work colleagues, your family or your friends, are finding that your anger is having an impact on your relationships or other parts of your life?

If these symptoms are spoiling your full enjoyment of life, or are affecting those around you, then you may wish to consider anger management counselling.