Anger is a natural emotion that everyone experiences. However, when teens struggle with anger issues, it can lead to destructive behavior that affects themselves and those around them. With effective anger management strategies and techniques, anyone can learn how to recognize and control their anger cues.
Controlling anger is possible. Learn how when you check out this guide from the team at Ascend today.
What Are Anger Cues?
Anger cues are the physical and emotional signs that indicate someone is experiencing anger. These can include:
- A racing or pounding heart
- Clenched fists
- Sweating
- Increased breathing rate
- Feelings of irritability, frustration, or anxiety
- Verbal aggression
Anger can be a sign of something deeper, like unresolved childhood trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder. Anxiety can also be a major contributor to uncontrolled anger in teens. In many cases, underlying mental health issues may be the root cause of excessive anger and outbursts.
Learning to recognize anger cues involves being more aware of body language, facial expressions, and other signs of escalating anger. This can help you learn how to respond and take action before your anger spirals out of control.
Control Strategies for Anger Cues
Once anger cues have been identified, you can learn effective strategies for controlling anger. A few examples of anger management strategies include deep breathing exercises, practicing mindfulness, physical exercise, journaling, and positive self-talk. Some other common anger management strategies include:
- Preventative planning
- Develop a feeling vocabulary
- Create a physical safe space where you feel calm
- Drawing your anger on paper
- Do grounding sensory exercises
Another effective strategy is to practice problem-solving techniques. This helps teens develop the skills needed to take control of their emotions and make rational decisions when faced with anger-inducing situations or triggers.
How Controlling Anger Through These Strategies Can Help
At Ascend, our teen mental health treatment programs provide a safe space for teens to explore their anger and how it affects their lives. Discovering the root causes of anger can empower teens to learn how to manage their emotions effectively. If they can identify their anger triggers and utilize effective coping strategies, it can help them to work through their feelings without leading to destructive behaviors like lashing out or using drugs or alcohol.
Through individual and group therapy, teens can practice mindfulness and develop a better understanding of how to cope with their anger. Teens can also learn to recognize and manage triggers that cause them to feel angry or overwhelmed. With the help of a licensed therapist, teens can develop positive coping skills and gain more control over their emotions.
Reach Out to Ascend Today
If you are dealing with anger management issues or know a teen who is, Ascend is here to help. Our approach to teen residential treatment is holistic, tailored, and evidence-based. Our experienced and compassionate team of licensed professionals will help your teen develop effective coping strategies and improve their emotional regulation. Reach out to our team today to learn more about our programs and to schedule a consultation.
Call 310.388.3713 to get started.
