A critical aspect of managing sudden verbal and physical outbursts is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for anger. CBT is a more objective manner that dwells on how people react to stressors. This gives mental health experts an idea of how CBT could be effectively used in anger management.
Uncontrolled emotions like anger, when left unmanaged, can escalate to mental health issues. At the moment, data shows that more than 45 million Americans are struggling with a mental illness. This refers to emotional, mental, and behavioral disorders that cause minimal to severe impairment in life. So, if you have anger issues and people around you are already affected, you might want to consider seeking counseling or therapy and undergo CBT.
Related: Do I Have Anger Issues? : A Guide to Help You Know
What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?
Cognitive behavioral therapy for anger or CBT is a psychological treatment designed to help a person recognize distortions in their thoughts by re-evaluating them. Therapists encourage the person to use problem-solving skills when faced with difficult life situations. This psychological treatment aims to improve a patient’s life, and it’s based on the following core principles:
- A psychological issue results due to unhealthy ways of thinking.
- A psychological problem is based on learned patterns of unacceptable behavior.
- A person suffering from a psychological issue can learn effective coping strategies to reduce symptoms and become a more rational individual.
CBT is a highly recommended therapy that brings promising benefits for people who need help managing their anger. The father of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Aaron Beck, has always believed that research must explore how people think and perceive things in relation to one’s environment. When a person is made aware of his behavior, there is a higher chance of changing negative perceptions and emotions.
How Can CBT Help With Your Anger Issues?
Cognitive behavioral therapy for aggression involves effective strategies that can change a person’s life. Here is the CBT process:
Step One: Determine the Source of Problem
Your counselor will help you determine the situations that cause issues. This will help you make a smarter decision about what problem and goal you should prioritize resolving first. Some conditions and situations may include:
- Loss of a loved one
- Marital or relationship issues
- Medical conditions
- Mental disorder signs and symptoms
- Feelings of resentment, anger, and bitterness towards an event or person
Step Two: Increase Awareness And Understanding
Self-awareness is an essential aspect of managing anger issues. If a person is angry, your thoughts and perspective are affected. After determining the problems you have to face, you need to share everything that’s going on in your mind.
The counselor will explain the importance of conversing with yourself (self-talk). One advantage of introspection is that it allows you to reflect and discover your physical and emotional responses to a difficult situation.
Step Three: Determine Inaccurate And Negative Thoughts
The counselor will help you realize your thoughts and behavioral patterns when you’re facing a problem. During the treatment, the counselor will ask you to pay close attention to your emotions, behaviors, and physical responses.
Step Four: Change Negative Thoughts
At this point, you will need to reflect on whether your thoughts are either distorted or real. Sometimes, you see life events as either bad or good, based on your emotions. CBT helps you reframe your memories. Many people find this stage very challenging. However, practicing healthy thinking and positive behavior can be established.
Questions about CBT
1. How long does CBT usually take?
CBT is a short-term treatment that usually ranges from several sessions. The sessions depend on the severity of the mental health issue, the level of stress, and how long the patient had symptoms.
A mental health professional must administer CBT to produce positive results. Sessions can be done online or face-to-face.
2. What are the expected results of CBT for anger?
This type of psychotherapy can help you alleviate or minimize your symptoms.CBT helps you find effective ways to deal with your anger issues.
You can’t expect immediate results, but the long-term benefits are promising. This can positively affect the way you think and behave.
3. How can you ensure a successful treatment?
Like any psychotherapeutic treatment, CBT is a tool to help you recover. To ensure recovery, it’s all up to you. Your dedication or active participation in the sessions and your desire to be better is the most significant variable on your recovery.
CBT For Anger Issues
If you’re dealing with anger issues, it’s vital to consult a mental health professional. Once you undergo assessment, you can ask a mental health professional to use CBT during the sessions. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help you change your unhealthy thinking and behaviors. This can help you have a better quality of life.
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