Emotions are complex but when it comes down to it, we feel emotions because they are an essential part of our evolutionary and social development. They help us to respond to our environment, communicate with others, and navigate the complex social world around us.
Emotions are also subjective experiences that are typically accompanied by physiological and behavioural changes. These strong feelings are usually triggered by internal or external stimuli, and they can be positive or negative, such as happiness, sadness, fear, anger, love, etc.
Emotions can be expressed in various ways, including facial expressions, tone of voice, body language, and even through written or digital communication using emoticons or emojis. They play an important role in human communication, social interactions, and decision-making, and they can also influence our thoughts, behaviours, and overall well-being.
SIGNS OF EMOTIONAL INSTABILITY
Not being able to control strong emotions can lead to a range of issues. If an individual is emotionally unstable, they may be experiencing rapid and intense mood swings, they may have difficulty regulating their emotions, or they have a low threshold for emotional reactivity.
Other terms that may be used to describe someone who struggles to control their emotions include “impulsive,” “volatile,” or “overly emotional.” It is important to note that struggling with emotional regulation is common and that seeking professional help can be a helpful step towards learning healthy ways to manage and regulate emotions.
If you think you or someone you know may need support for their extreme anger, there are some signs to look for:
- Frequent and intense anger – getting angry over small things or experiencing intense anger that is out of proportion to the situation
- Physical aggression – hitting, throwing things, or breaking objects when angry
- Verbal aggression – frequently yelling, screaming, or insulting others when angry
- Relationship problems – anger causing issues with family, friends, or coworkers
- Legal problems – such as assault charges
ANGER MANAGEMENT
One of the main emotions that can be difficult to manage is anger. Anger is a normal human emotion, but it can be challenging to manage and can lead to negative consequences if not handled appropriately.
Anger management refers to the process of learning how to control and manage feelings of anger in a healthy and constructive way. It is often a part of counselling, and can also be learned through self-help resources or anger management classes. The goal of anger management is to help individuals learn how to control their anger and reduce the negative impact it has on their lives and relationships.
ANGER MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
Here are some anger management strategies that can help you effectively manage and control your anger:
Take a Break
When you feel angry, take a break to calm down before you react. This could be a few minutes of deep breathing, taking a walk, or engaging in a relaxing activity such as meditation, yoga, or listening to music. It’s essential to give yourself time to calm down and process your thoughts and emotions before responding to the situation that triggered your anger.
Identify Triggers
Try to identify the specific situations, people, or events that trigger your anger. Once you know what triggers your anger, you can take steps to avoid or manage those triggers.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualisation can help reduce feelings of anger and tension in the body. These techniques involve focusing your attention on your breath or imagining yourself in a peaceful setting. Practising relaxation techniques regularly can help you manage anger in the long-term.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise can help reduce stress and tension in the body, which can help manage anger. It’s also a healthy way to release pent-up energy and emotions. Find an exercise routine that works for you, whether it’s running, yoga, swimming, or another activity you enjoy.
Seek Support
If you’re struggling with anger management, seek support from a therapist or support group. They can provide you with coping strategies, help you identify triggers, and develop a plan to manage your anger effectively. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need it.
Remember, managing anger can be challenging, but with the right support and resources, it is possible to learn how to control it and improve relationships. If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it may be helpful to talk to a mental health professional or anger management specialist who can help you develop strategies to manage your anger in a healthy and constructive way.
If you would like to discuss anger management, or general mental health with our team, or talk to a professional for more information, please contact us HERE.