Anger management classes are a form of behavioral therapy that offer tools, skills and guidance for anyone struggling with anger. These courses may be ordered by a court or employer if someone has had trouble controlling their anger in a public or professional setting, or can be taken out of personal interest. Courses are available in a variety of lengths and are often led by qualified instructors, such as therapists or licensed counselors.
Programs may be one-on-one video sessions or self-paced courses you can take on your own time. In addition to courses, some online anger management classes provide downloadable documents, quizzes that offer feedback and show your progress, and e-books that allow you to keep the information even after the course is done.
“Not only can anger management courses teach you how to communicate better, but they may also help to improve your health and well-being by curbing the side effects of unhealthy anger like headaches, sleeplessness and stomach issues,” says Susan Zinn, L.P.C.C., a licensed psychotherapist, behavioral researcher and founder of Westside Counseling Center in Santa Monica, California.
Zinn notes that aside from convenience, privacy and self-paced classes, online anger management also tends to be more cost effective. “They [online anger management courses] offer the option to learn from mental health and wellness leaders, including well-known doctors, clinicians and authors who you may not have access to otherwise based on location or pricing,” she says.
Who Needs Online Anger Management Classes?
If you find that your anger is interfering with your work, relationships or life, you might consider anger management classes, according to Zinn. “Anger management courses can benefit those who lose control of their anger when their stress levels skyrocket, resulting in a lack of judgment that can harm relationships, cause health issues and contribute to job instability,” she says.
Anger management can be beneficial for, “individuals who have struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injuries, young adults with decreased psychosocial functioning and individuals recovering from substance addiction or managing mental health conditions,” adds Zinn, who is also a certified trauma specialist.
However, online anger management isn’t for everyone, and people in need for more support may benefit from in person, one-on-one sessions, says Zinn. “It is essential to note that anger management courses are inappropriate for individuals whose anger is a symptom of an underlying mental health issue, like bipolar disorder, depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder,” she adds, and recommends other forms of therapy for these mental health conditions.
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