Mid-week Nuggets: Let's Burst Some Anger Myths and Face Facts

Myth: I shouldn't "hold in" my anger. It's healthy to vent and let it out.

Fact: While it's true that suppressing and ignoring anger is
unhealthy, venting is no better. Anger is not something you have to
"let out" in an aggressive way in order to avoid blowing up. In fact,
outbursts and tirades only fuel the fire and reinforce your anger
problem.


Myth: Anger, aggression, and intimidation help me earn respect and get
what I want.

Fact: True power doesn't come from bullying others. People may be
afraid of you, but they won't respect you if you can't control
yourself or handle opposing viewpoints. Others will be more willing to
listen to you and accommodate your needs if you communicate in a
respectful way.


Myth: I can't help myself. Anger isn't something you can control.

Fact: You can't always control the situation you're in or how it makes
you feel, but you can control how you express your anger. And you can
express your anger without being verbally or physically abusive. Even
if someone is pushing your buttons, you always have a choice about how
to respond.


Myth: Anger management is about learning to suppress your anger.

Fact: Never getting angry is not a good goal. Anger is normal, and it
will come out regardless of how hard you try to suppress it. Anger
management is all about becoming aware of your underlying feelings and
needs and developing healthier ways to manage upset. Rather than
trying to suppress your anger, the goal is to express it in
constructive ways.

(http://m.helpguide.org/articles/emotional-health/anger-management)