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What can I do if these suggestions don't help?

If you have been following the suggestions on this website and still feel you are not managing your anger effectively, consider these possibilities.

  • Changing the way you feel and behave in an anger-provoking situation is difficult and takes time. If you have been working on changing these behaviors for only a few weeks, you may not notice much improvement.It is necessary to work on relaxing, changing your thoughts about anger, and practicing new ways to express yourself over the course of several weeks or months. Take note of the small changes and keep working.

  • Sometimes there are other factors that hinder your ability to cope with anger. Using alcohol or other drugs regularly, may make it more difficult to regulate your thoughts, words, and behavior. It may be necessary to speak with a counselor or therapist to determine if you have a substance abuse problem that is interfering with your ability to manage anger effectively.

  • Individuals who are victims of abuse may have more difficulty managing their anger. If you have experienced or currently experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, we strongly suggest you seek the support of a counselor or therapist to help you explore and deal with your emotions related to this abuse.

  • Sometimes individuals who are suffering from depression have a difficult time managing anger. If you are have difficulty sleeping, cry frequently, have trouble concentrating, feel down or worthless, or have thoughts of hurting or killing yourself, please seek help immediately. When you have addressed your feelings of depression, it may be easier to control your anger.

  • If you are experiencing stress related to life events such as a recent death, divorce, or major transition, it may be difficult to address your angry feelings. It may be helpful to speak with family, friends, or a counselor in order to better manage your stress before you try to improve your anger management.
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