Understanding Anger

"Anyone can become angry - but to become angry with the right person, to the right degree, in the right time, for the right purpose and in the right way is a power few have mastered."                                                                                                     (Aristotle)

Anger is a perfectly natural and normal emotion, it's purpose is to keep us safe in times of Danger. If used well it can protect us or others from potentially harmful situations, or assist us in the ability to express when we feel an injustice or wrongdoing. But when used as a weapon or as a defence in situations that are really covering up other feelings such as pain, embarrassment, humiliation, frustration and sadness which are hidden underneath layers of protection. This can leave a person misunderstood and isolated, breaking down affective communication's and have a negative affect on relationships. Perhaps anger is all a person has experienced and is the only way they know to react and get out of uncomfortable situations. But ultimately living this way can be harmful to ourselves and others, in extreme cases leading to uncontrollable violence or suicide. There is light at the end of a dark tunnel it just takes a desire for change and the support of a good therapist to get there.