RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINES

Anger is often associated with frustration - and there's nothing more frustrating than computer malfunctions and automated answering services. But hassles are part of life, explains psychologist Sarah Edelman, who says it's pointless to expect life will always be fair or run like clockwork. She warns that anger can escalate your preception of a situation, so avoid using words like "always" and "never", as in, "My computer never works."

TRAFFIC TANTRUMS

You're stuck in traffic and running late, so what should you do? When you feel yourself getting angry, change the CD or radio station, advises John Kotroni, from Alchemy Psychology Services. This physical act symbolises a mental shift away from anger, and will distract you. Still boiling? If you're at a standstill in traffic, try this desensitisation task: flick on the wipers and, keeping your head still, follow the blades with your eyes for a few seconds. This will divert your attention and snap you out of your rage.

PEOPLE PROBLEMS

It may have started as a reasonable discussion, but before you know it, you're in full fury. Kotroni says when you're angry, your cerebral cortex becomes so overwhelmed by emotion that you can't think rationally. So at the first signs of anger - raised heartbeat, sweaty palms - focus on your breathing or clench your hands 20 times to override your anger response. Alternatively, choose a "trigger word" (or song) that will remind you to calm down when you become enraged.

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