What are the different types of anger?

Anger can be expressed in different ways and with different intensities.

• Inward anger: This type of anger harms you internally and involves
  • Depressing and dark thoughts
  • Negative self-talk
  • Not doing things that make you happy
  • Sometimes not paying attention to basic needs, such as food and water
• Outward anger: This type involves expressing anger by talking and doing harmful actions, including
  • Harming others verbally or physically
  • Breaking things
  • Attacking others
  • Shouting and cursing
• Passive anger: This type of anger is expressed through passive-aggressive behavior, including
  • Being sarcastic
  • Degrading others
  • Giving the silent treatment
  • Sulking

How can you control anger?

Anger management involves finding the triggers that increase your anger. Besides, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), support groups and (in some cases) medication can help.

Controlling anger issues requires managing anger positively, such as expressing anger in the following ways:

• Pause before you act. While you are angry you may say or do something that could be hurtful to others. So, take a few moments before you act.
• Be positive. Calm down and express anger positively by conveying your concerns, fears or needs clearly in words that do not sound too negative or hurtful to someone.
• Be physically active. Going on a walk or run can help you better manage anger since physical activity can help you calm down, keep you healthy and reduce your frustration.
• Find out a possible solution. Remind yourself that anger won’t help you to solve the problem, it will only worsen the situation. Don’t focus on the triggers that make you mad instead focus on solutions.
• Practice forgiveness. Do not hold a grudge on others since it will only give you negative feelings, which might hurt your relationship. Learn to forgive yourself and others.
• Use humor and avoid sarcasm. Make humor a part of your life, as this is a good way to release tension. However, avoid sarcasm because it may hurt other’s feelings.
• Practice meditation. When your temper flares, try deep breathing exercises, listen to your favorite music, practice yoga or do the things that help you relax.

If your anger becomes too hard to control, consider seeking therapy or taking an anger management class to better release your frustrations and learn your anger triggers. Therapy is uniquely good at assessing your mental health and self esteem, which can better address your aggressive behavior, irritability and angry feelings.