Anger is a powerful emotion, and behavior and mental health depend on a person’s ability to manage it. Thinking about my episodes of anger, I recall the emerging impulses to destroy something – throw, push, or hit. However, I am not too fond of such ways of this feeling’s manifestation. Therefore, it was necessary for me to look for an alternative. Unfortunately, sometimes I suppressed anger, but when I realized this measure’s harm, I sought new ways to cope with it. In some cases, beating a pillow like a punching bag was helpful. Nevertheless, the most effective method I discovered for myself is listening to music. I use more rhythmic or even aggressive genres with great anger and calmer songs – with less intense emotions. I find this method a healthy way to manage anger, and I would like my clients to use it if it helps them.
The intensity of anger may differ, and various ways are required to cope. At the same time, I agree with Kubler-Ross’s quote about the importance of anger externalization. However, the effectiveness of this feeling’s management method can also be different depending on individuals’ qualities and characteristics. For example, breathing exercises relax some people and help to weaken anger. For another person, more active methods can be helpful – releasing emotions through screaming, writing on paper, or through creativity. Exercising or any other physical activity such as a walk is also effective. Individuals who cannot cope with negative emotions can go to specialists, which will help them to accept feelings, understand their cause, and find the appropriate way to manage. Thus, anger is a normal human reaction, and it is crucial to manifest in a way that is not destructive to people experiencing this feeling and their surroundings.