Anger Awareness Week: Tips for Managing Anger

Amy Taylor December 05, 2011

Christmas is in air! This festive season is the best time to be jolly, happy, and excited. But it can also be one of the most stressful and nerve-racking events in the year.

While the kids may be very excited to receive new toys, clothes, and gadgets this holiday season, many adults are starting to feel the pressure. There’s a lot of workaround in the kitchen, the expectation is high, relatives coming over – the celebration must be something better than last year. And there are personal conflicts still unresolved.

Nearly one in two adults say that a festive argument has made them want to end it with their partner. Studies show that one in four adults feel that their relationship is under pressure during Christmas and one in every two feels like ending up their relationship with their partners.

This week, 1^st – 7^th December, is the National Anger Awareness Week. This has a very special purpose this Christmas. According to the founder of British Association of Anger Management Mike Fisher, this is designed to encourage people to prepare themselves using the coping mechanisms and finally create an atmosphere of calm and cooperation.

While it is true that arguments can be healthy and feeling angry is normal, these unwanted emotions shouldn’t affect your personal and social life. Here are some tips to help you manage your temper this coming Christmas:

Avoid cramming – don’t stress yourself in rushing towards the grocery stores and gift shops for your fun Christmas celebration. Make a schedule for shopping and do it a week or a few days before Christmas. You may also want to create a list of the things you will need to buy to avoid unnecessary rushing back to the store.
Set expectations – the economy is tight and even though you want the best for Christmas, you don’t want to experience more headaches in the coming days. If you’re running short in funds, be honest to your family especially to your kids. Tell them not to expect too much for gifts.
Keep away the bottle of Jack – many people tend to become alcoholic when they are depressed or angry. While it can be tempting to seep a glass of brandy while thinking of the things to do for Christmas, it can only aggravate your temper. Drink tea and some other healthy juices instead.
Breathe deep and relax – you feel your blood rushing all over your veins. You’re infuriated and you feel like losing up. The best thing you can do is take a long deep breath. This will surely relax your tensed muscles and will help you calm down. Come on, Christmas only happens once and you should be happy about it. Just relax!
Talk and listen – misunderstandings between family members can be the greatest hindrance towards a happy and enjoyable Christmas celebration. But this season is the time of forgiveness and love. Maybe you can talk it over with your spouse. When discussing about serious problems, always give way for each other. Calm down and listen to your partner. Even if you don’t agree with him or her, you can always show you understand by listening and not putting up a fight.