MSI Press Blog

  Yes, they can, in some ways.  🌱 What 12‑step programs are good at They offer several mechanisms that indirectly but meaningfully support anger regulation: 1. A structure for pausing and reflecting Steps like taking inventory (Step 4), admitting harm (Step 5), and making amends (Steps 8–9) encourage people to slow down, examine patterns, and take responsibility. That reflective rhythm alone can soften reactive anger. 2. A community that normalizes emotional struggle Anger often thrives in isolation. Hearing others talk about resentment, frustration, and shame reduces the sense of being uniquely volatile. That reduces pressure and makes anger feel more workable. 3. A language for resentment 12‑step culture treats resentment as a central emotional hazard. People learn to name it, track it, and understand its consequences. That vocabulary helps people catch anger earlier in its arc. 4. A spiritual or values‑based frame Whether someone interprets “Higher Power” lit...

  The following article is provided by Dr. Dennis Ortman, author of Anxiety Anonymous /American Bookfest Best Books Finalist Anger Anonymous /Book of the Year Finalist Depression Anonymous /Book of the Year Finalist Life, Liberty, & Covid The Pandemic and Hope Being Catholic in Troubled Tines (forthcoming) INFIGHTING “How blest are the pure of heart for they shall see God (Truth).” --Matthew 5: 8   “I avoid talking about politics and religion with so many of my family and friends. Our discussions quickly degenerate into arguments. Then we are fighting with each other. I just want to stay away from them.” This is a regular complaint these days. We live in a house divided. The polarization in our society is tearing apart families and friendships. Many of us hold rigid opinions about so many issues. We refuse to compromise, because, in our view, we would be betraying our conscience. The ideological differences in our society have been attributed to an ongoing “culture war” be...

   SOUNDS OF SILENCE “Be still and know that I am God.” --Psalm 46: 10   At the end of therapy sessions, my patients often ask me, “What can I do to make this better? Can you give me an exercise?” My advice is always the same, which mostly disconcerts them, “Just pay close attention to yourself.”  “How do I do that?” they ask. “Just be quiet, listen, and see what you learn about yourself,” I respond. I explain, “You can only heal from the inside out. When you understand yourself, you will know what to do.”  My patients see themselves as broken and needing to be fixed. They view me as the expert who will guide them to health. It is as if they are a broken car, and I am a skilled mechanic. They want a manual of repairs for a quick fix. I tell them, “You have the answer within you, but may not know it yet.”  We live in an attention deficit culture. We are hyperactive and need to keep busy. Being alone and quiet makes us restless and nervous. We are easily distract...