Understanding Triggers: Definitions, Illustrations, and Further Explanations
In the realm of trauma psychology, the term "triggered" holds a specific and significant meaning. It refers to the activation of PTSD symptoms in a person, often elicited by experiences or stimuli that remind them of a traumatic event. These triggers can range from people, places, emotions, or even certain times of the year.
However, in popular culture, the use of "triggered" is broader and less precise. It is often used to describe any negative emotional reaction, from mild annoyance to significant distress. This misuse can lead to a blurring of lines between discomfort and clinical triggers.
Distinguishing Psychological and Popular Uses
In contrast to the psychological use, the popular cultural use of "triggered" is more colloquial. Psychologically, "triggered" denotes a serious mental health response to a specific stimulus, often causing intense distress, trauma flashbacks, or addiction cravings. On the other hand, the popular cultural use is often used to describe any negative emotional reaction or irritation, regardless of severity.
Managing Triggers in Trauma Psychology
For those experiencing PTSD, managing triggers is crucial. While temporary avoidance can help prevent a person from becoming triggered, reducing distress, it can also reinforce the fear associated with the trigger, potentially reinforcing PTSD. Instead, it's best to learn self-care techniques to manage triggers and work with a therapist to treat the underlying PTSD.
Rather than aiming for total avoidance, it's beneficial to learn techniques to manage triggers and work towards addressing the root cause of PTSD. If body-focused techniques do not help, a person can try focusing on things in their surroundings, such as objects or colours. Grounding techniques, such as taking 10 slow breaths, counting things they can see, touch, hear, smell, or taste, or drinking cool water, can also help bring a person back to the present moment.
Supporting Those Experiencing Triggers
Offering nonjudgmental support and letting a person know they are not alone can be incredibly helpful. Sometimes, talking about everyday things may be a suitable distraction, but it's essential to respect a person's needs and preferences. If a person needs to leave a room, building, or situation to return to a calm state, they should feel empowered to do so.
The Prognosis for PTSD
PTSD is a treatable condition, and several therapies for trauma can reduce symptoms or address the underlying cause. These include trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, cognitive processing therapy, prolonged exposure therapy, and narrative exposure therapy. The prognosis for PTSD varies depending on a person's response, the amount of support they have, and if they receive treatment. Around 40% of people who develop PTSD improve with treatment, though they may have some lingering symptoms, while around 50% recover completely.
In conclusion, understanding the psychological use of "triggered" is essential to support those experiencing trauma. By separating fact from fiction, we can better understand the needs of those affected by PTSD and provide appropriate support.
