All of us have experienced what it means to be angry at any levels.
But not all of us know how to control it.
Adult Psychiatric specialist Agnes Padilla said being angry forever – especially when holding grudges – is not good for your health.
“Whether you like it or not, anger affects your emotional, physical and mental state,” she said.
Anger is a negative emotional reaction to something that triggers displeasure.
However, Padilla said being angry at something or someone is a normal human reaction. She added it only becomes wrong and not normal when you hurt someone physically.
“It is how we expressed our displeasure that makes it normal or not,” Padilla explained.
To help tame our anger, here are some tried and tested tips:
* Think before you speak. In the heat of the moment, it is easy to say something you’ll regret later on. Take a few moments to collect your thoughts before saying anything, and allow others involved in the situation to do the same.
* Once you’re calm, express your anger. As soon as you’re thinking clearly, express your frustration in an assertive, but non-confrontational way. State your concerns and needs clearly and directly, without hurting others or trying to control them.
* 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.
* Take a timeout. Timeouts are not just for kids, it’s also for adults. Give yourself short breaks during times of the day that tend to be stressful. This might help you feel better prepared to handle what’s ahead, without getting irritated or angry.
* Use humor to release tension. Lightening up can help diffuse tension. Using humor will help you face what’s making you angry and possibly any unrealistic expectations you have for how things should go. Avoid sarcasm, as it can hurt feelings and make things worse.
* 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.”
* Know when to seek help. Learning to control anger is a great challenge for everyone at times. Seek medical help – or spiritual guidance-counseling – to help you overcome these unnecessary negative reactions, when you can just relax and take it easy, added with full self-control. Otherwise, you will end up hurting yourself and others, most especially the one that you loved.
Ana Williams is the health columnist for The Graham Star.