You’re speed-walking to your shift at the café across campus. Of course, you’re late because your professor talked too long, again. The person in front of you walks so slow they might topple over, and you shoulder past them, muttering under your breath. Finally, you burst into the café and sign in, only two minutes late. But you don’t get off the hook so easily. The one coworker you can’t stand to be with is already on your heels, asking where you’ve been, if you could read over something for them, and if you could please take out the trash. You feel your anger building. You try to force it down with a few deep breaths and smiles. You can’t afford to yell again. At the cash register, you greet your first customer with only a slightly pained smile. They don’t return it, instead asking if service is always so slow here. Quicker than you have time to blink, your anger erupts. When you respond to the customer, it’s a yell.
***
Undoubtedly, that was a frustrating morning. We would be surprised if you weren’t a little grumpy! But being grumpy and being angry are two different things, with one having the potential for disastrous results. It’s not easy controlling anger when everything in you is begging to be released and fight back.
With the right support though, it is possible! Thriveworks Anger Management at Amherst understands how tempting it is to punch back- literally or figuratively. Our Anger Management counselors are here to explore the root causes of anger and help you practice tools so you can have complete freedom in your life. You can schedule an appointment with a Thriveworks Amherst Anger Management Therapist by calling 413-634-4805 today.
What Makes Anger Unhealthy?
Anger in and of itself is not necessarily bad. Anger is a natural emotion just as fear or joy. It is an important emotion that can have positive effects, but only after it’s healthily managed. The negative side effects of anger can spread not only to the people around us, but inside us as well.
The physical side effects are often overlooked, although equally as devastating. Some include:
- Increased blood pressure
- Liver and kidney damage
- High cholesterol
- Increased risk of coronary artery disease
- Increased risk of a heart attack
Just a little bit of anger can do all that? Yes, and it all comes down to the body’s messengers- hormones. Stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline are released in a “flight or fight” situation. Anger creates an environment in the body where your flight or fight response is activated, and your body is flooded with stress hormones.
In some situations, this could save your life! In the everyday grind of life though, it can wear down your body and mind.
It’s not just the body that feels the effects of anger. Thoughts and emotions can be harmed as well. Researchers have shown that anger is linked to depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. It decreases likelihood of success in the workplace and in relationships.
The brain and body are remarkable in their ability to heal. When struggling with anger, it can feel like nothing will change the way you react. But anger is controllable. Anger Management can be difficult and confusing, but that’s what Thriveworks Amherst is here for. We will walk beside you as you take the steps to health and control.
Finally, our Anger Management Counselors at Amherst want to remind you that struggling with anger does not mean you are a bad person or have weak will power. Your ability to succeed and personal worth are not contingent upon how well you control your anger. Maybe a few coping mechanisms are needed to live your best life. That is exactly what Anger Management at Thriveworks Amherst is here to give.
Do I Really Need Anger Management?
About 1 in 10 people struggle with anger strong enough to impair their lives. It’s relatively common, and many people choose to seek professional Anger Management Counseling for help. There’s never a reason too big or too small that will bar your way into a counseling session. Thriveworks Amherst is here to guide you to a healthier, happier self. Whether that journey is only a few steps, or a few miles doesn’t matter, it is your growth that is important.
It takes courage to reach out and is a difficult decision to say the least! If you are still on the fence, look for some of these signs:
- People are avoiding you
- You’ve lost relationships
- People are afraid of talking with you
- Your health is suffering
- You are feeling depressed and/or anxious
- You feel out of control when angry
- You say and do things that you regret later
- Seemingly little things get under your skin
Anger can come out at the most inopportune situations. How you respond should be in your control, not in your anger’s. Thriveworks Anger Management at Amherst is excited for you to begin learning new ways to gain control and freedom from your anger.
What Does Anger Management Counseling Look Like?
All sessions at Amherst Thriveworks will be client-first. Which means all sessions will be uniquely designed to fit your personality, goals, and needs. We have many tools to help us accomplish this. A few examples are:
- Strategies for relaxation
- How to alter how you think
- How to change your surroundings
- Different and more efficient communication
- Problem solving current issues
- Ways to repair and strengthen relationships
- Learning to recognize your person signs that mean anger is getting out of control
Many people only need a few tools before they are confident in their ability to live a controlled life.
Thriveworks Amherst always creates a judgment free space where you can practice the skills that will take you to a happier, fulfilling life. Thriveworks Amherst anger management therapists also accept most major health insurances. So, don’t hesitate but schedule an appointment with one of our therapists or counselors by calling 413-634-4805 and get the support that you need today.
