Anger Management -Recognition Leads to Prevention
An effective tool used in anger management courses involves the reflection on typical patterns or cycles that happen during an anger related episode. Identifying these patterns is the key to moving towards prevention.
People often state that anger happens so fast that tracking and modifying behavior is feels like an impossible feat. It is commonly reported that the moments that lead to an angry outburst or behavior occur at a rapid pace. Minutes may feel like seconds and/or time seems to fly by. When recollecting about an angry episode, phrases such as, ‘The next thing I knew…’ or ‘I don’t even remember what happened next…’ are often used to illustrate the whirlwind feeling that accompanies anger. However, there are more distinct signs that arise before a full explosion of anger.
Some of the most common physiological symptoms reported are increased heart rate and body temperature, sweating, body tension and labored breathing. When these symptoms are noticed it is the perfect time to utilize a relaxation tool to decompress. A few techniques that have proven to be effective with controlling anger are deep breathing, guided imagery and progressive relaxation.
If one can recognize these bodily symptoms, the potential to deescalate and self regulate the feeling of anger has increased, which allows for an opportunity to modify behavior and prevent an anger related incident.
Stacy H. Price M.A., MFTI
Daybreak Counseling Service
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