12 Ways to Manage Anger - Part 2 of 2

Nurse's Notes

1. Aim to be a good role model by learning to control anger.
2. Go for a quick walk or bike ride to blow off steam
3. Jot down a list of proper ways to handle your anger
4. Make time to relax and do something you enjoy every day.
5. Never use physical violence, no matter how angry you are.
6. Question why something upsets you and what you could do differently next time.
7. Repeat a calming word or phrase to yourself, such as “take it easy” or “relax.”
8. Try writing down your feelings to get them out.
9. Use humor when appropriate to lighten tense situations.
10. Visualize a relaxing scene or pleasant experience from your past.
11. You sometimes need help to make changes.  Seek a counselor’s advice if needed.
12. Get enough sleep.  Your patience level is lower when you are tired.

Adjustment Disorder, is it the label applied when adult bananas have tantrums for not getting their own way?

According to Mayo Clinic staff, (2009), the definition of an adjustment disorder is a type of stress-related mental illness.  Common triggers can be work problems, divorce, getting married, loss of a loved one and the list could go on.  The difference between someone experiencing the same stressors and someone with an adjustment disorder is that those with the disorder have a harder time adjusting to life changes.  People with the adjustment disorder may skip work or school, forget to pay bills, pick fights, abuse drugs or alcohol, or experience suicidal ideation.   In comparison to others who are, adapt at mobilizing effective coping techniques.  The bright side to having an adjustment disorder is that it is self -limiting with symptoms only lasting a few months.

In contrast, Mayo Clinic staff, (2010), writes that a tantrum is the expression of a child’s frustration with mental or emotional challenges of the moment.  A child’s tantrum can be characterized as kicking, supersonic screaming, flailing uncontrollably on the floor, hitting, and breath holding.  These characteristics represent a child’s lack of coping skills and such episodes tend to decrease as the child ages and gains more effective means to express his or her needs.  Similarly, adults with adjustment disorder do not have effective coping mechanisms to handle negative life changes that occur outside of their control.  Adjustment disorder suffers may require psychotherapy to explore more effective means of coping with life changes.  In addition, unlike children, adults may have destructive means of coping at their disposal and, therefore, signs of an adjustment disorder should not be taken lightly.

More importantly, if you or a loved one is suffering from signs of an adjustment disorder, please seek medical attention as the symptoms may lead to suicidal ideation.  This blog was written for entertainment purposes only and is not to be used as a diagnostic tool.

References

·         Mayo Clinic Staff, . (2009). Adjustment disorders. MayoClinic.com. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/adjustment-disorders/DS00584

·         Mayo Clinic Staff, . (2010). Temper tantrums: how to keep the peace. MayoClinic.com. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/tantrum/HQ01622