Mental Health Triggers: What It Really Means To Be "Triggered"
By: Lauryn Bass
It’s time for a conversation about Triggers.
What Are They?
The Oxford Dictionary defines them as: a small device that releases a spring or catch and so sets off a mechanism, especially in order to fire a gun. But we’re talking mental. When thinking about things that set you off in your mind, it could be something as simple as a word that can put you in a bad place. Wikipedia states that triggers are, “a psychological stimulus that prompts recall of a previous traumatic experience. The stimulus itself need not be frightening or traumatic and may be only indirectly or superficially reminiscent of an earlier traumatic incident, such as a scent or a piece of clothing.”
Some examples of Triggers include: (via MentalHealth.Net)
the anniversary dates of losses or trauma.
frightening news events.
too much to do, feeling overwhelmed.
family friction.
the end of a relationship.
spending too much time alone.
being judged, criticized, teased, or put down.
financial problems, getting a big bill.
How Do They Affect People? (Short And Long term)
You know how you can smell fresh baked goods and remember that time your mom was in the kitchen with you as a child? Imagine this occurring with an unhealed memory, on a more extreme level. Depending on what may have happened, it could stay with you in your mind all day or even make you sick to your stomach. Your emotional state can affect your physical state, and even transfer to the people around you. It’s not as simple as a bad memory. According to Healthline, “Triggers affect your ability to remain present in the moment. It may bring up specific thought patterns or influence your behavior.” Triggers can come in lower level forms but also can be linked to extreme levels such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD.
What Happens When They Occur?
Triggers can cause you to relive a past situation in the present. From the initial flashback replaying in your head, to racing thoughts about the situation, upsetting the peace within and around you, they can lead to violent outbursts, panic attacks, and all-around emotional distress.
To cope with the trauma, many look for ways to pull them out of this void. If the wrong outlet is used, it can lead to anxiety, feeling of loneliness, eating disorders, substance abuse, or shutting the world out.
How To Work On Them?
Remember that you’re not alone. Mental health is something that everyone has to work on to maintain. There are always good and bad days to experience but you can control your reaction and energy output in a situation. When a traumatic situation occurs, seek therapy to give special attention to your emotional needs. They can also help you work on trigger warnings. (a statement made prior to sharing potentially disturbing content)
When working on them outside of that space, try:
Taking a moment of silence to breathe
Pray for peace
Journal your journey
Finding ways to relax
Perform your form of self-care
Reach out to your friends and family
Tell yourself everything is okay
Exercise
Get more rest
Stretch
Meditate
Be self-aware of your feelings
Healing.
Things take time. The fabric of your mind can’t be physically woven back together. But you have to tackle these problems head on until things begin to hurt less and less. Triggers aren’t going to stop cold turkey, and they won’t disappear overnight. So be patient with yourself and practice the best methods to pump yourself up with positivity and continually strive to be your happiest self.
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