How to break the anger that causes harm habit

You don't need more willpower. You need to see the cycle behind anger that causes harm, and step in earlier.

What is anger that causes harm doing for you?

Habits stick because they do a job. For many people, anger that causes harm brings relief, escape, a reward, a way to switch off, or a sense of control. Breaking it means finding a safer way to get that same job done.

Spot your triggers

Common triggers include tiredness, evenings, weekends, payday, arguments, being alone, boredom, stress at work, certain people, easy access and a bad day. The app's check-ins help you see which ones are yours.

When the urge hits

Try one of these, right now: delay for 15 minutes, surf the urge, change where you are or reach out to someone.

If you slip

Slips are part of changing. Look at what happened, learn where to step in next time, and carry on. Read: after a slip.

Read next

Anger: distance first, repair later