ANGER IS A STRONG EMOTION

We all become angry at something or someone sometime. Sometimes we fume inside and sometimes we yell or become irritable. Walking away from anger takes discipline. There are things that can trigger our emotions that can lead to anger. Some people are just angry all the time. Others take a long time to become upset. Anger can lead to road rage, abuse and other unsociable behaviours. Anger can also be a defense for sadness or grief! Look behind a person's anger to what else may be occurring! In my work, patient's families often present as angry. Understanding what might be happening often reveals they feel like a fish out of water when someone they love is sick or in the hospital. Sometimes they are just scared so they lash out! "Where's the doctor?" "The tea is cold!" Learning to manage our anger helps us stay civilized! We do not harm others. Are there times you wish you had contained your anger?

NATIONAL WORK SOCIAL WEEK

This year's motto is " There for you when you need us!" Social Work is a profession that has a great range of services and interventions. Community, hospital, private practice, social workers are there for people in all socio-economic backgrounds. Abuse, for example, can filter to anyone regardless of race, creed, colour or economic status. From crisis intervention to therapy to resouce information, social workers have the knowledge to assist you or to find the right service or intervention that will help you. Here's to Social Workers everywhere- a profession that I am proud to represent.

TIME TO GET OUT

Not every relationship, marriage, partnership is a good one. Sometimes people just grow apart and leave amicably. Sadly, there are some that are suffering abuse at the hand of a partner, spouse, friend. It takes courage and strength to leave a bad situation. It takes courage to start over-especially if there are children involved. Do you know someone who needs your support through a difficult time? Guide to the appropriate services and professionals. Just be there for the person. Help get them to safety. Reassure life will move on. Here's to those I have known who had the courage to move on. May I be available to someone who may need a helping hand. Will you be available?