Do you find yourself acting in ways that seem out of control? Even frightening? Do you say things that hurt others? Do you curse, hit, or throw things when upset? Do you socially withdraw, sulk, or get physically ill? Are you easily frustrated, inconvenienced or annoyed by events or others? You may need help to discover better ways to deal with your emotions.
Anger is often regarded as negative. However, anger is simply another emotion that many people experience, but because of mishandling gets a 'bad rap'. It is not the emotion of anger, but how the expression or lack of expression of anger creates challenges for us in several areas which usually include our work, family, friends, and health. In other words, it is not the emotion, but the behavior exhibited that needs to be redirected for positive outcomes.
Remember, it is okay to be angry. BUT, it is not okay to hurt others or yourself. Anger is an emotion just like other emotions. Let's name a few: love, joy, happiness. The difference is that these emotions are viewed as positive. But are these emotions, in and of themselves, good or bad? No, they are not good or bad. The same is true with anger. Anger, in and of itself, is not good or bad. It is not until we bring in our behaviors to the equation do we create good or bad. Emotions, in and of themselves, simply are - they exist. They have little to no power until we release them into behaviors either toward ourselves or to others, and at that moment they have consequences.
Anger, just as other emotions, can vary in intensity and be described on a continuum. Anger is usually described in terms from mild irritation to intense fury and rage. Problems usually appear at the intense fury and rage end of the continuum. Anger has gotten out of control and has turned destructive. As a result, you may be experiencing problems at work, in your personal relationships, and in the overall quality of your life. At this point, anger can make you feel as though you are at the mercy of an unpredictable and powerful emotion.
If you feel that your anger is really out of control, if it is having an impact on your relationships and on important parts of your life, you might consider counseling to learn how to handle it better.
To assist you in developing a range of techniques for changing your thought patterns and behavior, The Samaritan Counseling Center of Southwest Georgia is offering an Anger Management Group beginning June 24. This will be a six-week course. $35 per person per week. If you have questions or to register, call 229-243-1633.
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