I know anger is one of the bi-products of PTSD. After struggling with this for several years, I had thought I had it more under control. But today, I really outdid myself in the shrieking and sarcasm department.

Things have been stressful lately (layoffs, medical withdrawal from school, etc), and my PTSD has "rekindled", if this is possible.

Am trying to use my DBT skills to calm self down, and not take my anger out willy nilly, but I did slip this afternoon and give my sister in law a big piece of my mind over something trivial.

At the time, the anger was sooo intoxicating! I felt inflamed with power, and so self righteous. Now, in the aftermath, all I feel is shame, dirtiness (that I allowed myself to spew anger all over someone), and tremendous guilt. I have apologized profusely, but need to get a grip for when the next angry storm cell blows over.

Is there any skill that others find particularly useful? How do others deal with this (or does it not happen to you?)

I will try:
- waiting a few seconds before I respond
- calmly breathing, noticing if there is tension and deliberately relaxing that area
- slowing down (I find when I talk/walk/etc fast it just kindles the rage)
- asking for a time out so I can collect myself and respond (asking, of course, in a neutral way)

Thank you for any input.