Getting triggered by past experiences is a common phenomenon, especially for individuals who have experienced trauma or significant stress.
What are triggers?
Triggers are stimuli that evoke a strong emotional or physiological response, often linked to a past traumatic or stressful experience. Triggers can be sights, sounds, smells, or even emotions that remind the individual of the experience.
Why do triggers occur?
Triggers occur because our brains associate certain stimuli with past experiences, creating a conditioned response. This association is often unconscious, making it difficult to anticipate or control.
Common triggers
1. Sensory triggers: Sights, sounds, smells, tastes, or textures that remind the individual of the experience.
2. Emotional triggers: Emotions or emotional states that evoke a strong response, such as anxiety, fear, or sadness.
3. Social triggers: Interactions or relationships that remind the individual of past experiences, such as authority figures or specific social situations.
4. Environmental triggers: Places, situations, or environments that evoke a strong response, such as a specific location or time of day.
Managing triggers
1. Self-awareness: Recognize your triggers and how they affect you.
2. Grounding techniques: To calm yourself, use sensory grounding techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness.
3. Coping skills: Develop healthy coping skills, such as exercise, creative expression, or talking to a trusted friend or therapist.
4. Seek support: For guidance and connection, contact a mental health professional or a support group.
5. Reframe triggers: Reframe triggers as opportunities for growth, learning, and healing.
Healing and recovery
1. Therapy: Engage in therapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), trauma-focused CBT, or art therapy, to process and work through past experiences.
2. Self-care: Prioritize self-care, including rest, nutrition, exercise, and relaxation.
3. Support network: Build a support network of trusted friends, family, or a support group.
4. Mindfulness and self-compassion: Practice mindfulness and self-compassion to cultivate a kind and understanding relationship with yourself.
Remember, healing and recovery are unique and ongoing processes. Be patient and kind to yourself as you navigate your journey.