Police work is stressful, but not letting that stress get out of control is essential to good police work. Although expressing anger can be advantageous at times, it can also have a devastating effect if the police officer cannot control it. In addition, although some of the results of the stress response can be beneficial, its long-term effects can kill the police officer. The National Institute of Mental Health has recommended several techniques for coping with anger. These include increasing physical activity, talking with someone else about the stress, recognizing personal limits, taking care of both mind and body, making time to laugh and have fun, and being a participant in activities rather than just an observer. Other techniques include making lists and setting priorities, becoming more cooperative, crying sometimes, and mentally relaxing by visualizing enjoyable scenes, and seeking professional help if the situation is out of hand. Police officers should also recognize how they react to stress so that they can stop the cycle of anger as soon as they start feeling its effects.