Anger management is the process of identifying various anger triggers and practicing healthy coping skills to deal with them more efficiently. Anger management isn’t about avoiding, dismissing, or trying to eliminate all anger. After all, anger is a normal reaction, and we commonly experience it when we feel afraid, disrespected, or out of control.
With that in mind, anger management refers to learning how to channel anger more productively and effectively. By recognizing the initial signs of anger, you can practice intervening with yourself before the emotion escalates. Furthermore, continuous practice helps you become more aware of your anger triggers.
Some people practice anger management by simply experimenting with whatever works best for them. Others practice skills they learn in books, workshops, therapy, or in specific anger management classes. Most anger management consists of implementing strategies related to mindfulness, assertiveness, and decreasing how you interpret stress throughout the day.
Mastering anger management often requires time, effort, and continuous practice. It can be challenging to change your usual reactions or behaviors. Keep in mind that it’s normal to experience setbacks during this process. However, committing yourself to learning and implementing change can keep you on the right track.
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