Allow me to point out that “anger” is not society’s number one emotional issue, “uncontrolled anger” is society’s number one emotional issue _Dr. Liz West
We have all come to the conclusion that we, as a society, need healing. We have also come to the conclusion that the healing that we once knew is not working for us. So, how and where do we start? We start by seeking a new type of healing first (since the old one isn’t serving us well), and given the fact that emotions are at the seat of the soul, let’s start there. There are many emotional issues, but I will discuss society’s number one emotional issue—uncontrolled anger. Yes, uncontrolled anger has become society’s number one emotional issue. Allow me to point out that “anger” is not society’s number one emotional issue, “uncontrolled anger” is society’s number one emotional issue. Anger is not number one because anger is not a bad emotion. The negative response to anger is what is unfavorable for everyone involved. It is at this point where crime usually comes into play.
We have been unwilling to accept the fact that violence, as a result of anger, is everyone’s individual responsibility. Instead of taking on the responsibility, we have sought scapegoats in minority cultures, racial groups, the mentally ill, as well as subcultures. Look at the crime we see in the news. Instead of taking responsibility, we result to committing crimes. Crime is at an all-time high and is, unfortunately, becoming more and more bazaar. People are dropping babies off bridges, adults are abusing children, filming it and putting it on social media, as well as parents beating children to their deaths. We’re becoming more aware of rape, child molestation, bombings, and suicide/homicide attempts and commitments. Not to mention sports figures who are abusing women, children, and animals, mass shootings, school shootings, theater shootings, mall shootings, drive-by shootings, and even church shootings. The underlying issue here is uncontrolled anger.
Pay attention the next time you go to a game or any crowded stadium. When at a football game, I’m always intrigued by the action of the fans. Observe the next time you’re in the stands, and you will notice irrational fits of anger, uncontrolled frustration oozing from people that masquerade under the façade of excitement or “team spirit”. Notice the booing, catcalls, drunkenness, fights in the stands, and unrestrained selfishness in the name of “team loyalty”. These people are trying desperately to release tension from within because these are not people who are at peace with themselves, they are secretly angry. I’ve long stopped looking at the news, but if you still do so, watch and observe the amount of anger and rage that is exhibited by people who are featured in the news. Listen to the lyrics of the most popular songs that are playing today. People also exhibit anger, rage, frustration, discontent, and stress in inequalities. When we are ready to accept that the problem is within ourselves and when we are willing to heal both psychologically and spiritually, then and only then can we approach the cycle of anger, end the suffering, and begin the healing process. This process begins with the connection to a licensed mental health professional, it also requires honest communication to that mental health professional, as well as a commitment to the healing journey.
“A New Healing” is the name of an intervention that I often use to approach healing from a psychological and spiritual aspect. Healing is not an event; it is a journey, an evolution. Just as we are always learning, we are also always healing (once we decide to begin the healing journey). I can’t tell you how to get healed, I can only share with you how to begin the healing journey, then you take it from there.
I will share five tips to recognize that healing would be beneficial. I will also share 5 tips that will guide you in beginning the healing journey.
How do I know I need healing?
Tip 1: When it is difficult to forgive yourself or someone else.
Tip 2: When you want to get revenge after someone has offended you.
Tip 3: When it is difficult to let go of past trauma.
Tip 4: If you become triggered and respond emotionally to stimuli such as words, images, music, videos, smells, memories, thoughts, activities, gestures, etc.
Tip 5: When there is no sense of fulfillment.
How to begin your healing journey?
Tip 1: Realize, admit, and determine that you will begin your healing journey.
Tip 2: Connect with a mental health professional
Tip 3: Connect with a spiritual advisor, mentor, or guide
Tip 4: Communicate openly and honestly with mental health professionals.
Tip 5: Make the commitment to begin the journey and do the self-work.
Remember, this is a journey, not an event or destination. So, begin your journey to “A New Healing” with honor instead of judgment, and I wish you well.
Dr. Liz L. West, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, CCBT, CART. Dr Liz West is a clinical psychotherapist and founder of A New Healing Inc “Healing For The Culture”.
Dr. West can be found on all social media platforms http://@anewhealinginc.
