Busy mom fights to keep from exploding

Dear Abby: I’m a 24-year-old woman who has been married for four years. My husband, “Jerry,” and I have two young boys. Jerry is military. I stay at home with the kids and work part time online on an associate degree. We struggle financially, but our basic needs are met and, overall, I’m happy with my life.

My problem is I’m finding myself struggling to control a very strong temper. The kids or my husband may be getting on my nerves, or I’m late turning in an assignment, or I’m unable to get housework done— these frustrations build up inside and make me want to throw a fit, scream or throw things, essentially NOT be the cool, responsible adult I typically am.

I know this is incredibly immature, and I realize I’m well off in the grand scheme of things, but this anger still brews. I have never had a problem controlling my temper before. Can you help? — Fired Up in Florida

Dear Fired Up: The quarantines and lockdownsmay be part of the cause of your near meltdowns. Many people are stressed and spread thin, and the isolation isn’t helping.

Sometimes when people are frustrated, they lose their temper with those presently around them. In situations like this, it’s important to evaluate the source of what might really be irritating you rather than misdirect your anger at a blameless target. The ability to control your emotions is crucial so your children won’t grow up thinking that exploding is normal. There are healthy ways of dealing with frustration. Among them: leaving the room, going for a walk or saying to yourself, “Please, Lord, don’t let me lose my temper!” before opening your mouth.