Anger is a natural reaction that we all have every once in a while. In many cases, it’s perfectly healthy. When we experience anger, we use a variety of internal processes to cope with emotions. However, the way in which we control these is what determines whether our rage is healthy or not.
Unhealthy reactions to anger can lead to drastic consequences. This can impact the happiness of both the individual concerned and those around them. If that becomes the case, it’s often at that point that a person should seek out anger management therapy to teach them the skills needed to regulate their emotions.
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at anger management therapy, how it works and whether it’s effective.
How does anger management therapy work?
Rather than merely forcing someone to suppress their feelings, anger management will work to help them express emotions in a healthier manner without negatively affecting those around them.
With the roots of a person’s anger often buried in emotional trauma, addiction or grief, the first step to resolving emotional difficulties is first to identify potential triggers before considering coping mechanisms.
Most anger management therapies are held on a 1-to-1 basis, or in a small group. At the start of therapy, the sessions will typically be more frequent. However, as an individual begins to learn more about their anger, the frequency level of appointments will often decrease to fortnightly or even monthly.
There are also a number of different approaches that may potentially be used in these sessions depending on price. Along with setting and what the councillor and individual see as suitable.
Cognitive behavioural therapy
One of the most common types of counselling is cognitive behavioural therapy which helps someone recognise the self-defeating negative thoughts that lie behind their anger flare-ups.
This structured approach will help those who suffer from unmanageable anger to cope better with difficult life situations and positively resolve conflicts in their relationships.
Psychodynamic therapy
For complicated issues, an alternative approach may be required, focussing on the root of a specific problem. In this case, psychodynamic therapy may be the best approach to take. It works to support individuals in overcoming past trauma. Therapists in this field will work to uncover subconscious feelings that can lead to specific reactions.
Attending therapy may feel intimidating or daunting at first as it can be tough to face harsh truths or overcome barriers which have been in place for a long time. But, over time, patients will learn valuable life skills that could help them gain better control over their emotions, so they don’t continue to have a negative impact.
Does anger management therapy work?
Anger management therapy is incredibly effective in helping people take back control of their lives and gain knowledge of why they overreact in stressful situations.
Learning to respond to frustrating circumstances healthily and productively is hugely beneficial in stopping anger overriding other emotions. Once an individual can recognise the warning signs when their temper is rising or identify their triggers, it becomes easier to deal with anger before it spirals out of control.
When the body senses aggression, it is natural to feel a rush of adrenaline that leads a person to react quickly without much control. Anger management therapy will provide key coping methods to reign in those emotions and bring back the power to the individual.
Essentially, anger management can help reach a person’s goals, solve problems and undo any damage that could have been caused by their anger, including:
Mental issues
Failing to address those anger issues can be extremely damaging to a person’s mental state. There are plenty of psychological and social problems linked to anger, ranging from troubled relationships to stress and depression. These can become destructive to a person’s quality of life and result in life-altering changes in relationships, career options and overall wellbeing.
Physical issues
The stress caused by these ongoing feelings can also lead to other health problems. Such as high blood pressure, heart problems, headaches and difficulty sleeping. As such, relieving someone of these symptoms will provide an overall improvement to a person’s physical health.
What are the signs that anger management is needed?
Anger is different for everyone. Some people can handle all feelings of anger, others will struggle when things get really intense. Some simply require a little extra help in controlling negative emotions due to past experiences or other difficulties in life.
Recognising the signs that someone is struggling to manage their anger effectively is hugely important in understanding whether anger management is required. Patterns to watch out for include difficulty expressing emotions as well as verbal abuse and physical aggressiveness to others.
However, problems aren’t limited to outward behaviour patterns. Self-harm and substance abuse are also indicators of someone experiencing anger concerns. It’s also wise to watch out for physical symptoms associated with anger. Such as chest pains, headaches, fatigue and high blood pressure.
How do you find the right anger management therapy?
If you or someone you know is showing signs of anger, you should not be afraid to seek out assistance. Your first port of call will ideally be to your GP. They should be able to advise you on the best course of action. Whether it be to seek therapy or go in for a specialist appointment.
It is recommended to only visit a counsellor who is registered with a professional organisation, such as the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy. Your GP will ensure the counsellor provided is legitimate.
However, if you want to do a little more research before you reach out to your GP. Search on trustworthy online sites which will all give you a little more knowledge on just how effective anger management can be.
Don’t forget this isn’t something you have to go through alone. Consider speaking with a friend or family member. They will want to support you through any programme that helps to better yourself.
Anger management therapy
Interested in finding out more about anger management works? Pinnacle Therapy is on hand to help. As certified therapists with years of experience in support of anger issues. We’ll be happy to talk you through the process and answer any questions. Just call us on 0207 060 4375.
