Coping with Anger?

[Loopi]

One of my biggest triggers for SI at the moment is anger - mainly that which is brought about by things that I shouldn't be angry about, so i end up using myself as an outlet for it.
With my depression deepening i don't like the level of my SI, and i really need to find a better way to outlet it for the next two weeks until i have my therapist appointment. Any ideas?

 

[anteloperunner]

there are many different ways to deal with anger what i do may not work for you.

somethings i do is hit a punching bag and tend to yell at it in frustrating while i'm hitting it. i also really like to bike or do exercise but have to be careful with exercise so you dont over do it. i also like taking things apart when i'm angry like destroying soda cans, or taking apart some of the stuff i built (this isnt bad cause it is my stuff and i usually build it into something new later).

i know for other people writing out feelings on paper works but that has never helped me.

 

[livingforGod135]

take it out on something else (soft toys?)

 

[Heldinhishands]

Those are brill suggestions Antelope. I dont really have any other suggestions to add to those, other than to tell you how I try to cope when im really really angry. If at all possible, I like to try to sleep it off.. sometimes just avoiding the whole issue for a lil while works for me. Usually that isnt possible though. I find running is absolutely BRILL as you can really vent your anger but in a much more healthy way by allowing yourself to sprint for distances to really get the anger out.. usually i use running as a kind of last resort and wont let myself cut till after I have gone for a run.. and just before I go for a run, I text a mature friend of mine and tell her that Im struggling, am going on a run and would really value her prayers while I go for the run so that the urges and the anger I feel would settle before I return. I find this combo really helps me. If that is not enough, i will then try to write the words and pictures i want to write on myself, on my body with thick red felt tip pen..

Quite possibly none of these will work for you but I thought id tell you the strategies i use anyway in the hopes that maybe even just one of them will resonate and be of value to you. All the best though loopi.And well done for trying

 

[Ramona]

One of my biggest triggers for SI at the moment is anger - mainly that which is brought about by things that I shouldn't be angry about, so i end up using myself as an outlet for it.
With my depression deepening i don't like the level of my SI, and i really need to find a better way to outlet it for the next two weeks until i have my therapist appointment. Any ideas?

First, throw out anything in your house that is sharp. If you need, say, steak knives for eating, ask your parents (or RA, you're in college IIRC) to keep them in their bedrooms and give them to you only to eat or cook. It's much easier not to cut when there's nothing sharp for you to use.

Lately I've been painting instead of burning. The piece I'm working on is scary - I'm surprised at how dark it's turning out - but it helps me so much. Not only does it give me something to do with my hands, but it allows me to transfer my anger and hopelessness into something productive and creative.

I also have my wonderful friend Alan for loving support when I just need to cry. Find an accountability partner, preferably someone who has struggled with depression, bipolar, SI, BPD or what have you. You'll support and encourage them, and they'll do the same to you. I was hesitant at first, but I've come to love my accountability partner deeply.

I am pulling for you.

 

[berry2000]

I hear you. I am struggling with the same. I am also bipolar II and the meds they have me on will not let me get depressed so instead i end up with anger rage. I have not self harmed in 6 months. But instead i want to use other methods like punch glass or something like that. I wish i had answers but wanted to know i understand what you are going thru. Lamictal really helps me and also Xanax when the anxiety/anger hits the roof.