"Anger is an acid that can do more harm to the vessel in which it is stored than to anything on which it is poured." Mark Twain

What is anger? It is a feeling in which one wants to fight. It is a feeling that one has been purposely hurt. Anger can come from experiencing injustices (e.g., humiliation, belittling, harassment). One can experience anger when feeling disempowered or betrayed.

What are the signs that one is angry? Sometimes persons wear those feelings publicly. One could express anger outwardly (e.g., swearing, shouting, frowning, mumbling to oneself, getting easily frustrated, etc.). One could also keep anger inwardly (e.g., personalizing other persons bad behavior, increased heart rate and blood pressure, not taking deep breaths, easily angered, etc.). A person may feel emotional exhaustion due to experiencing such stressors.

How to overcome anger? It is essential not to personalize other persons' destructive behaviors (i.e., being interrupted when one is trying to achieve a goal). Some persons will provoke you to make you angry, so others perceive you as angry. Try ignoring such behavior and staying calm. If persons are lying about you, ignore them. If you try to defend yourself, you may be perceived as delusional (they may gaslight or hijack the situation). Focus on the things you can control (how you respond).

How do you practice self-care when experiencing daily situations that may cause anger?

• Spend time alone. It allows you to self-reflect. It will enable you to rest and restore.

• Physical exercise: When you exercise, it helps in reducing stress as it increases your endorphins.

• Read autobiographies: By reading other persons' experiences, you will learn that you are not alone. You will also learn how such persons (i.e., Eleanor Roosevelt, Booker T Washington, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, W.E.B Dubois, Nelson Mandela, Maya Angelou, and others) overcame experiences meant to "trigger "cause anger.

• Feelings of anger can be acceptable: Do not undermine your experience. You are allowed to feel anger. The problem is that the person interested in making you angry will not validate your feelings but use them against you. Do not display anger publicly nor express anger to persons who do not have your best interest at heart.

Thank you for making us a part of the community.

Proteawell (Joanie)