there are many ways of coping with even the worst feelings of anger.
- thumping a pillow or a cushion.this is a 'safe' way of being aggressive and, although it might sound silly, it does make you feel alot better.
- Playing music. Losing yourself in your favourite type of sound helps you gain some distance, calm down and bring your emotions back into line.
- Talking to someone who understands- your mum or your best friend.
- Learning to walk away. This is a tricky one, but it's REMARKABLY EFFECTIVE . If people are used to you getting mad or lashing out, simply turning your back and walking away will take them by suprise. It also gives you time to see things in perspective before going back more calmly and explaining your side of th problem.
- Writing down your feelings- in a diary, story or poem. you dont ever have to show it to anyone but putting it down on paper can help.
- Crying. Recent research suggests that crying is an excellent way of coping with strong emotion. it seems that crying when you're genuinely upset helps reduce some of the chemicals which cause the brain to experience anxiety, anger and depression. so you genuinely feel better afterwards.
adapted from 'Totally Pants' by Tricia Kreitman, Dr Neil Simpson & Dr Rosemary Jones.
