Anger is a normal feeling that happens when you feel threatened or hurt. But when anger is out of control, it can damage your relationships, cause stress, and harm your health. Learning to control anger takes practice, patience, and self-awareness. When you feel anger rising, stop and think about your next steps. This article covers ten things you should never do when you are angry, plus healthier ways to manage this strong emotion.

1. Yell or Scream

Raising your voice often makes a situation worse. Yelling can make the other person feel attacked or scared, which may lead them to yell back. This cycle can quickly lead to more anger, not less. A calm, steady tone helps keep respect on both sides. If you feel like screaming, take a deep breath, count to ten, and speak slowly.

2. Make Impulsive Decisions

When you are angry, it is easy to make choices you will regret. You might suddenly quit your job, end a friendship, or spend money you do not have. These choices can cause problems once you cool down. Wait before making major decisions. Give yourself time to consider the pros and cons. Important decisions need a clear head, which is hard to have when you are upset.

3. Drive Aggressively

Driving with anger puts you and others at risk. Anger can make you speed, tailgate, or ignore traffic signs. These actions raise the chance of accidents. If you feel anger building when you are behind the wheel, pull over somewhere safe. Take a few deep breaths and calm down before getting back on the road. Keeping your cool while driving protects everyone.

4. Turn to Substances

Some people try to handle anger by drinking alcohol or using drugs. This might bring a quick sense of relief, but it often leads to worse outcomes. Substance use can harm your judgment, damage your health, and create more problems. Instead, try healthier outlets like exercising, calling a friend, or talking to a counselor.

5. Engage in Physical Confrontations

Resorting to violence can harm you and others. Punching walls, throwing items, or hurting someone does not solve the reason for your anger. Instead, channel that energy into safer activities. Go for a run, do push-ups, or use a stress ball to help release tension. Staying calm and nonviolent helps you address the real issue more effectively.

6. Vent Publicly on Social Media

Posting angry comments on social media can damage your reputation and your relationships. Words posted online are hard to take back once they are out there. Rather than ranting publicly, step away from your phone or computer until you calm down. If you need to let out your feelings in writing, use a private journal. This lets you sort through your emotions without hurting others or leaving a permanent digital trail.

7. Bottle It Up

Pretending you are not angry does not make the anger disappear. Keeping anger inside can cause it to grow, and it might explode later. This can lead to health problems like headaches or stomach issues. Instead, find a healthy way to express your anger. Talk to a friend, family member, or therapist. Even writing down what happened can help you make sense of your feelings.

8. Seek Revenge

Getting revenge may seem satisfying at first, but it often leads to guilt or more conflict. It also keeps you locked in a cycle of anger. Instead, focus on problem-solving or moving on. Ask yourself which parts of the situation you can control. Then, do what you can to fix those parts or walk away if it cannot be fixed.

9. Insult or Blame Others

Calling names or pointing fingers can destroy trust. It also fails to solve whatever caused your anger in the first place. Instead, say how the other person’s actions affect you. For example, “I feel upset when you interrupt me” is more helpful than “You are so rude.” Sticking to facts and emotions can keep the focus on solutions.

10. Neglect Self-Care

It is common to forget about basic needs like sleep, healthy meals, and exercise when you are angry. But a tired or hungry body makes anger worse. Skipping fun or relaxing activities only adds to your stress. Try taking a walk, meditating, or listening to music. Taking care of yourself can help you stay level-headed, even when you are mad.

In short, anger can cloud your thoughts and lead to poor decisions. By learning what not to do, you can avoid serious mistakes and reduce harm to yourself and others. Take a step back, breathe, and think before you act. If anger control is still a struggle, pray to God to take away the spirit of anger from you. How if you don’t have faith in God, consider talking to a mental health professional. With support, you can learn better ways to manage anger and protect your well-being.