What Are PTSD Triggers and How Can You Deal With Them
Experiencing the traumatic event that you went through was more than enough the first time around. You never imagined experiencing a traumatic event, to begin with, but now you're doing anything and everything you can to not experience another one.
No matter if the traumatic experience was last year or 10 years ago, it can have long-lasting effects on a person and their life. The word triggers is sometimes carelessly thrown around. However, PTSD triggers are very much real and should not be taken lightly. But, what exactly are they and most importantly, how can you deal with them?
Types of PTSD Triggers
There are many different types of PTSD triggers that are related to the trauma that someone experiences. Most of the triggers are sensory triggers or details that the body and brain hold onto after experiencing a trauma. These are some of the most common types of PTSD triggers:
Anniversaries
Feelings
People
Places
Scents
Sounds
Things
How the Triggers Develop
PTSD triggers are developed before or during a traumatic event. Even if trauma isn't directly related to the traumatic event, the brain can create a link between the two as a way to protect itself form future threats or danger. These are some of the most common reactions to triggers:
Aggression
Anxiety
Extreme sadness
Nightmares
On edge
Panic attacks
Substance use and abuse
Violence
How You Can Deal with PTSD Triggers
If you're struggling with PTSD, seeking additional support is encouraged, but there are things that you can do to begin the coping process.
Deep Breathing
When you're experiencing fear or anxiety, your breathing may increase or shorten. Slowing down your body and brain by implementing deep breathing techniques can help your breathing return to a state of normalcy.
Try the 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique
A body scan is a great way for you to help your brain and body return to the present moment. Your mind may start to wander towards worrying about things from your past or future events that haven't occurred yet. Try to pay attention to your five senses by completing a body scan to help keep you grounded in the present moment. Look for five things that you can see, four things that you can touch, three things that you can hear, two things that you can smell, and one thing that you can taste.
Start Journaling
Writing in a journal is another great way to help you deal with PTSD triggers. Not only is it a great way to get all of those anxious thoughts and emotions on the pages of a book instead of being trapped in your head, but it's also a great tool to look back on later when you're feeling better. You can reread the journal entries to help you figure out any potential triggers or methods that may have helped or worsened the anxiety that you were dealing with.
Move Your Body
Moving your body has many benefits. It helps to increase your overall mental health and wellness. It's also a natural stress reliever and mood booster. Moving your body doesn't have to mean spending hours a day breaking a sweat either. It can look like taking a walk around your neighborhood, rolling out a yoga mat in the comfort of your own home, or hitting up a workout class with a friend.
Seek Additional Support
No one expects you to get through PTSD or try to handle PTSD triggers all on your own. Sure, there are things that you may be able to do to help you cope on your own. But seeking additional support may be needed. You are not defined by your trauma, nor should you continue to avoid your trauma or triggers moving forward. Working with a licensed and trained mental health professional may be exactly what you need to overcome your trauma once and for all.
If you're struggling with signs or symptoms of PTSD, reach out to us today to set up a consultation for trauma therapy.