Anger Awareness Week is a powerful reminder that while anger is a natural emotion, how we handle it can shape our relationships, health, and sense of self. Every December, people across the UK take a step back to look at how anger affects their lives – and what they can do to respond to it more constructively. It’s not about suppressing anger, but understanding its roots and learning healthier ways to express it.
What is Anger Awareness Week?
Anger Awareness Week was established to encourage honest conversations about anger, especially the kind that builds silently and explodes in harmful ways. It highlights the difference between healthy and destructive anger, and offers tools for managing it through self-awareness, communication, and mental health support. The campaign is led by the British Association of Anger Management (BAAM) and is designed for everyone – from individuals and families to schools and workplaces.
When is Anger Awareness Week?
Anger Awareness Week runs annually from December 1 to December 7. It’s intentionally placed at the start of December – a time when holiday stress, financial pressure, and emotional strain can push people to their limits. Events and resources are shared throughout the week, including the popular “Keep Your Cool Over Yule” toolkit, workshops, articles, and social media campaigns.
Why Anger Awareness Week Matters
Anger, when unmanaged, can have a ripple effect – hurting our loved ones, isolating us at work, or damaging our mental and physical health. Left unchecked, it can lead to violence, addiction, burnout, and chronic stress-related illnesses. Yet, many people don’t seek support because they feel ashamed or don’t recognize their anger as a problem. This week matters because it breaks that silence. It normalizes asking for help, highlights the early warning signs of unhealthy anger, and points people toward real, practical strategies.
How to Get Involved in Anger Awareness Week
Whether you’re someone who struggles with anger or you want to help others, there are many ways to take part:
- Download the toolkit: Use BAAM’s “Keep Your Cool Over Yule” guide to identify your triggers and set calming routines.
- Host a discussion: In workplaces, schools, or community groups, create safe spaces to talk about anger and emotional wellbeing.
- Try an anger management course: Sign up for a group or online course to build skills in self-regulation and communication.
- Share on social media: Use your platform to spread awareness, debunk myths, and share your experiences with managing anger.
- Practice reflection: Keep a journal for the week noting moments of irritation or frustration, and explore the underlying causes.
History of Anger Awareness Week
Anger Awareness Week was launched in the UK by the British Association of Anger Management in 2000. The goal was simple but urgent: to get people talking about anger in a non-judgmental way. Over the years, it has grown into a national campaign, supported by therapists, schools, and public health workers. It’s particularly known for highlighting seasonal stress – hence the annual December focus – and encouraging people to build emotional resilience ahead of the holidays.
Noteworthy Facts About Anger Awareness Week
- BAAM reports that over 80% of participants in its programs experience improved relationships and reduced conflict.
- The UK sees a significant rise in domestic abuse reports over the festive period, making December a critical time for early intervention.
- Anger is linked to increased risk of heart disease, digestive problems, and mental health challenges if left unmanaged.
- Thousands of people have downloaded the “Keep Your Cool Over Yule” kit since its launch, using it as a personal or family resource.
Hashtags
#AngerAwarenessWeek, #KeepYourCool, #EmotionalWellbeing
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