Anger management - what actually works?

Jan 19·1 min read

I blow up way too easily at my kids and it's getting worse not better. Last week I threw a plate (not at anyone, but still). My 11yo is getting scared of me and that's when I realized this is serious. Been reading about anger management strategies and they all sound dumb - "count to ten" "take a walk." But has anyone actually found something that works in the moment? I need practical stuff I can do when my blood pressure is already up.

6 comments367 views

Comments(6)

CChristopherNew DadJan 20

Breathing exercises before you get to that point. I use the 4-7-8 technique when I feel it coming on and it actually works instead of just yelling.

MMark T.New DadJan 20

The fact that you're asking this and recognizing it's getting worse shows you care about fixing it. That's the first step. Would definitely talk to someone professional about this though.

DDex J.RegularJan 20

What specifically triggers you the most? Like is it when they're not listening, the noise, being tired, or something else? Might help to identify the pattern.

HHenry M.RegularJan 21

Have you tried just removing yourself from the room when you feel it starting? Like physically walking away before you hit the explosion point? Changed everything for me.

SShane K.RegularJan 21

The plate thing is a wake up call. I did something similar last year and it scared my kids so badly that I finally got serious about therapy. It's worth looking into because your kids are learning how to handle anger by watching you.

VVincentNew DadJan 22

Real talk: therapy combined with exercise helped me way more than I expected. Started running 3x a week and it's like I have a release valve now instead of bottling everything up until I lose it.