Anger and Rage
Anger is a very common emotion we all experience to some degree or another at some time in our life. It may present as angry thoughts and/or angry feelings and could be best described as a fiery energy within the person. It might be small and just flicker then fizzle out, or it may grow and then erupt, causing numerous reactions within an individual.
On its own, anger as a form of energy, may not be considered as being harmful, and may on occasion be useful; as it can encourage a lazy individual to become productive! However, as is most frequently experienced, anger will create any number of harmful reactions to the individual themselves and/or to people around them. You need to be mindful of others and not allow your anger to take control of your life.
Do not be careless or reckless with your anger.
Being angry with other people
There are many ways in which anger is expressed towards others, talking angrily, ranting/raging, swearing, shouting, screaming, etc. Anger may arise from a variety of situations or it may be an attempt by a person to get the attention they are looking for. It is often used to create fear in others which may allow an angry individual to exert control. In many situations, anger is at the core of emotional control or manipulation and often forms the basis of relationships. Anger is often created from frustration or exasperation with the situation at hand, or it may be an attempt by a person to get the attention they want. Depending on the situation, this may fall under the heading of verbal and/or emotional abuse. There are few that are comfortable with angry confrontations, which understandably make them feel uncomfortable and unsafe. In addition, the majority of people will not condone abuse in any shape or form.
Being angry with yourself
It is worth considering the downside of anger, emotional/physical self-abuse, self-punishment/criticism etc. Angry feelings create angry thoughts which create angry feelings and the cycle continues. When out of control, this cycle will have a detrimental effect on both your mental and physical health and wellbeing.
What is causing your anger?
How do you react when you are angry?
How do you react with people when you are angry?
Do you regularly have angry thoughts or feelings or a combination of both?
Does your anger create bad habits for you?
Do you recognise anger within yourself?
Rage
Rage is uncontrolled anger. The time it takes for anger to become rage depends on each individual; their speed and sensitivity, as well as the events taking place. Drugs and alcohol will also alter the speed at which rage develops and lead an individual to a state of complete abandonment of self-control. This is a dangerous position to be in, not just for the individual but any other person they come in contact with. It is neither wise nor safe to place yourself in a position that creates harm. Self-control and self-respect should be a priority in your life.
It should be noted that regardless of any intent, ability or lack thereof, of an individual to be in control, they are solely responsible for their own behaviour and the outcome resulting from their rage.