suggestions for dealing with anger and stress

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sirhawkeye
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10 Apr 2014, 11:32 pm

I should start by explaining how Aspergers affects me before I go into my problem, so you understand a little better. My aspergers is a bit minor compared to most of the people I have met who have the syndrome. The only big areas it affects me in is more the feelings side of things (relationships, anger, etc). Much of the other characteristics stuff I've read about doesn't really pertain to me (such as being picky about eating, not wanting to drive, having to do things in a particular order most times, or working--which I actually do enjoy). So, according to my friends (most of which couldn't tell I had it until I told them) it is minor for me.

But here's my issue.... I've been working full-time in a demanding job, which I like (although it can get to be a bit to handle at times). I just also recently started a Graudate program as well (part time, but the workload is about the same as a full-time class load since it is a graduate program). I've noticed that ever since starting this program (and probably even before, so it may not even be related) that I'm always feeling stressed, and I have this sort of drive to always be working, and that any time spent not working (either actually working at a job, or doing homework, or learning something), is wasteful. And it's caused me quite a bit of stress. I've also noticed that with the increased level of stress (from work and my classes) that I've become more angry (and not necessarily in the form of blowing up at people--because I generally dont). It's more that the anger is turned inward on myself. Now, I don't do some of the things that some people do (cutting, etc), because it's not at that point, nor does it ever get to that point. But it has gotten to a point where I can see that it's starting to take a toll on my health as well (I'm always feeling tired, low energy levels, although I still have enough to stay busy during the day)...

I guess what I'm getting at is can anyone suggest some ideas for ways that i could reduce this anger (or control it better)? Unfortunately, the stress won't be going away, unless i quit my job and just focus on classes, which I can't do. I feel as though I don't get out as a much as I should (most of my closes friends have moved from the area so getting together is a once a month deal), but I feel that I need to get out more. I would like to date, but again, don't feel that I have the energy to do it (although it may help relieve some of the stress and anger possibly).. Any ideas???



kirayng
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11 Apr 2014, 4:54 am

There was a suggestion in another thread about doing MMA, mixed martial arts. Since you're such a busy person who likes to work, having a hobby such as a sport like martial arts, could teach you a lot about yourself, stress management and it's fun you get to kick butt! :) I'm gonna try it myself.



neilson_wheels
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11 Apr 2014, 8:19 am

You need to reduce the stress as that creates the anger, which in turn is just a natural reaction.

While a post-grad course is a high load, this is conditioning for the workaholic mentality that is expected in many careers.
I think there is a clue in the fact that you have a full time job and a part time course on the go.
That is time and a half that you are investing with nothing left for yourself.

Is it possible to reduce your work hours, or change jobs, so that you have a part time job and a part time course and some time left over for Sirhawkeye, and friends and dating?

Sounds like you do not give yourself enough, or any, breaks?
All work and no play makes you a very unproductive unit.

Do you eat enough and well?
Often slips off of the important list when work loads are high.

Do you exercise?
Anything to get you out for a bit, cycling, table tennis, or as above, MA is good training for self-control and allows a degree of venting too.
Can you include exercise as part of your daily routine, like cycle, instead of using motorised transport.