FORT RUCKER, Ala. (October 6, 2011) -- Fort Rucker's Family Advocacy Program wants to help people identify and handle anger before it affects Soldiers, civilians and Family members at the quarterly anger management workshops Oct. 18 and 25 in the Early Childhood Activity Center.

The workshops do not help prevent anger, because it is a normal part of life, but help to prevent the negative effects of anger, said Luticia Trimble-Smith, FAP manager.

"Anger is a normal emotion that if handled effectively, can lead to problem solving and accomplishing goals. If it's not handled appropriately, it can lead to problems with health, relationships and on the job," she said.

Those who attend the workshop will learn to identify the causes and triggers of anger, and then form an anger management plan. According to Trimble-Smith, having a healthy way to handle anger can prevent many things, including high blood pressure, heart disease, substance abuse and depression.

"If you bottle [anger] up, it can come out in a negative way. We try to let people know that there are ways to express anger calmly. Eventually it will come out verbally, physically or as health problems," said Trimble-Smith.

This month's anger management workshops also help highlight Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Trimble-Smith said that handling anger can prevent small problems from becoming larger.

"Couples and Family members shouldn't wait until there's an incident of verbal or physical attack. This workshop is something that can enhance relationships. An anger management class can help couples find a way to communicate so that anger doesn't turn into hurt and pain," she said.

After the workshop, there will also be options for those who might need more help managing anger. Multiple options will be available for these individuals.

"The workshop is not counseling, but we can refer people to Military Family Life Consultant and behavioral health," said Trimble-Smith.

FAP holds many anger management workshops each year, as well as one-on-one services for those dealing with anger issues. Trimble-Smith hopes that people will not fear the stigma associated with attending an anger management class, and will use the opportunity to enhance their lives.

"You don't have to have a problem to attend an anger management class. It's something new you can learn to help you deal with everyday problems," she said.

To register or find out more information, call 255-3898.