Here’s how to harness your rage – and maybe even make it work to your advantage.

11. Heed the warning signs

11. Heed the warning signs
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Unhealthy anger – the inability to cool down when upset – can be a symptom of mental health disorders such as depression, says Dr Darin Dougherty of the Harvard Medical School. Speak to your doctor if this feels familiar; medication and cognitive behavioural therapy may help.

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12. Cut yourself some slack

12. Cut yourself some slack
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Some forms of anger – the ‘fight’ side of the fight-or-flight coin – are associated with fear and are hardwired into the brain. When you or a loved one is in apparent danger, it’s normal to lash out. During these situations, says Cropanzano, apologise if necessary and forgive yourself for the outburst.

13. Find the funny

13. Find the funny
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After anger runs its course, let go of it. Cropanzano offers three steps for decompressing after you’ve been hurt: make sense of the wrongdoing by discussing it with a loved one or a therapist; avoid holding onto resentment or bitterness after you’ve processed the issue; and, finally, move forward – find humour in the situation or leave the environment if it’s become toxic.

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