Hey Dan

Let me start by saying, I am not a doctor, psychologist or councilor. If what ever you are going though was a cold, would get you to go to the doctor? If the answer is yes, go to a doctor.

Now, I want to talk about anger. Anger is not my emotion(al drug) of choice . I am much more of a depression guy myself. For years, I struggled with getting into a funk and staying there. What I learn was this:

What you do is more important then how you feel about it.

This is to say, my current feelings are a state I am in not who I am. Take the example of depression. I may feel like hiding from the world. That is a valid feeling that I should talk about and understand. It is not a reason to avoid leaving the house. Getting out of the house and seeing friends is important. Despite how I feel currently, I still need to get our and talk to people.

So what do you do?

1. Identify why you are angry. Most often for me it is a function of frustration. Think about it and talk about it.

2. People do not make you angry. You are in charge and you are responsible.

3. Anger is natural. Everyone feels it and it is useful. Always ask the question “is this anger useful?”

4. Think about and practice the way you want to respond to anger. Make it your choice.

5. Find an outlet. Anger is useful. It gives you the energy to fight back. Find physical outlets. Exercise, clean house, or punch a stuffed animal. Do not let it build up.

Above all talk about it. It really is not that scary once you drag it out into the light.