Is Your Young Person Struggling with Anger?

Many young people find it difficult to manage their emotions, and anger can be particularly challenging. It often affects the whole family, leading to conflict between parents, siblings, and other family members. Over time, it can feel like everyone is walking on eggshells, unsure of what might trigger the next outburst.

One simple but effective approach can be used when the young person is calm. Ask them to draw what their anger looks like. If colours are available, it is often drawn in red, and the image may appear messy or scribbled, reflecting their frustration. It doesn’t matter if the drawing doesn’t resemble anything recognisable. What matters is that it represents their feelings.

Next, invite them to give the drawing a name. It could be “Mr Angry” or anything they choose. Then, have a conversation about where they would like this character to go. Perhaps it’s a desert island far away, the bottom of the ocean, or even just the bin.

You can take this a step further by writing an “address” on the paper, adding a stamp if you like, and making a small, meaningful ritual of sending it away. Encourage them to say goodbye, helping them to feel a sense of release and control.

Once this is done, you can gently remind them that their anger has been sent away if it begins to return.

If you would like further help or advice, please feel free to get in touch:

07964 976711