There are a number of things that can set off anger. Some of things such as prejudice, unfairness and lack of justice may cause people to have a great deal of angry feelings that are intense. While other things such as spilling a drink, leaving the toilet seat up or losing the cap to the milk cause people to have feelings of anger but not as great or intense. Recognizing and knowing what triggers feelings of anger is a great help. It is also very helpful knowing how to avoid these triggers. You should be aware that other people around you will learn what triggers your anger and may use them against you. Try to recognize others that may be doing this and find an appropriate, healthy method of dealing with the situation.

Feelings of anger are a normal emotion, yet rarely productive. When you lose control of your anger, you must realize there are consequences for your actions. When responding to your feelings of anger, use appropriate intensity. Match an adversary's verbal intensity but do not escalate it. This lets others know you will not be walked on and also helps avoid trouble in the future. Dealing with someone that is out of line will require assertiveness, yet this does not generally require rudeness. But when you respond promptly and appropriately using a clear line of communication this an effective and healthy way of expressing anger. When responding to a situation that you are feeling angry about never let things go to far or escalate out of control. Here are some things you can do so that emotions and feelings of anger do not get out of control:

1. Count to ten.
   This is a simple, well-known method but it is effective. Before reacting, count to ten. Counting to ten gives you a chance to calm yourself down and regain your composure and self control.


2. Pause for just a moment.
   If you find you are in a heated argument, stop talking and pause for just a moment. This pause will allow you to gather your thoughts. Listen to what the other person is saying and use this to your advantage by preparing a response. When people begin to try and talk over someone by shouting it usually means that there is no listening going on, just yelling. Talking over someone also increases the level of anger and frustration. The other person will eventually stop talking if you allow them to have their say and when they are finished yapping you are now able to respond to them in a healthy and productive way.


3. Try to think of something you enjoy or something that is beautiful.
   If you have encountered a situation that is making you very angry, try to think of something you enjoy doing, or something you think is beautiful. If you need to close your eyes. Good memories can also be a terrific way to help calm feelings of anger.


4. Brush up on your geography.

Many times counting to ten is just to simple and because there is not a great amount of thought put into it, gaining your composure is something that is not accomplished. However, trying to name ten, or even twenty states in the United States or naming their state capitals takes more effort and thought, which can then take your mind off the situation and allow you to calm down and gain your composure.