get a hold on/of (oneself)

get a hold on/of (oneself)

To control one's reactions or emotions. After losing her job, Sarah needed to calm down and get a hold on herself in order to drive home safely. You're not going to be able to think clearly until you get a hold on yourself.

See also: get, hold, of, on

get/take a ˈgrip/ˈhold on yourself

(informal) make an effort to control your feelings, especially in a difficult situation: I know you’re nervous, but you must get a grip on yourself. You’re due to go on stage in five minutes. ♢ Look, Ben, get a grip, will you? If we panic now, we’ll be finished.

See also: get, grip, hold, on, take