If you see a mental health professional for anger issues, they can help you identify the problem and come up with helpful tools for controlling your emotions. Essentially, being able to master anger management requires being able to control the escalation of anger through learned skills. A common approach taken with anger management is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
What is CBT?
CBT is a method of psychotherapy that is led by a licensed therapist. During these sessions, your therapist will help you identify negative thoughts and their origin. They will also ask you to question and reflect on the reasoning behind these thoughts.
Overall, the goal is to help patients change thinking patterns and see the difference between personal beliefs, thoughts, and feelings. It is also used to help patients break negative behavioral patterns.
Some ways to practice CBT include:
- Journalling
- Relaxation
- Meditation
- Mindfulness
- Challenging beliefs
- Social, physical, and thinking exercises
Managing Anger
When looking for ways to manage anger, common ways to calm down and include:
- Thinking before speaking
- Expressing concerns
- Getting exercise
- Taking time for yourself
- Identifying possible solutions prior to acting
- Thinking and speaking with “I” statements
- Not holding a grudge
- Utilizing humor to ease tension
Your therapist will help you find helpful tools that will enable you to control your unique situation. There is no one-size-fits-all approach.
Seeking Help
If you are looking for a way to master anger management, turn to LaHue Counseling Services. Our team of experienced and licensed mental health professionals will help provide ways for you to control your anger.