After seeing or going through a traumatic event, some people develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While some may recover after a while, especially after getting out of a traumatic event, for others, this condition can last a number of years. Anyone can develop PTDS even though it is common with war veterans. PTSD symptoms can also come and go from time to time. In particular circumstances, PTSD will be triggered by something that reminds an individual of that experience. To heal from PTSD, one first has to recognize their triggers and find ways to cope with them.
Common PTSD Triggers
PTSD triggers can develop during or before a traumatic event. There could be feelings or moments that either happened before or during the experience. For instance, maybe you were cooking a particular meal when there was an explosion. The smell of that meal could be a trigger for you as the brain will associate it with danger. This is why someone may feel like they are reliving that experience again every time something triggers them. Below are common PTSD triggers.
- Feelings- Certain feelings like stress, fear, and worry can remind a person of how they were feeling during the traumatic experience.
- People- Perpetrators of a traumatic experience or people who were around when an incident happened can trigger PTSD symptoms.
- Scent- Particular smells such as smoke or perfume can also trigger memories. In fact, scents tend to have a strong connection to one’s memory.
- Objects-Things that were around when a traumatic event happened can evoke PTSD symptoms. Maybe it is a toy, a piece of clothing, or a type of car.
- Places- Visiting the place where a traumatic event happens can trigger PTSD.
- Sounds- One can be triggered by hearing a sound that was present during a traumatic event.
Recognizing The Triggers
It is not always easy for someone to identify what triggers them. Sometimes it can take time before you realize what triggers your anger, fear, or worry. That is why you find most people turning to drugs and alcohol as a way to deal with all these negative feelings. The result is a co-occurring disorder where you are dealing with addiction and a mental condition at the same time. One way to identify what has been triggering you is through therapy. That is why visiting a recovery center can be effective. Not only will they help you address PTSD, but they will also help you deal with substance and alcohol abuse. Click here to learn more about recovering from substance abuse and mental health illnesses.
Talking to a professional can help you identify what in your environment triggers fear, anxiety, anger, and other symptoms.
Coping With the Triggers
When triggers are external, like a person, a place, or object, one way to cope with them can be by avoiding them. But when a trigger is internal, like a memory, pain, anger, or fear, it can be hard to avoid these things. Learning how to cope with triggers can help you manage your PTSD. For instance, cognitive behavioral therapy can be used to manage some triggers. This can be done by changing how one perceives certain triggers. Having a support system around you, whether it is from a partner, friend, or relative can also help. Remember not to push people away when going through PTSD. You are a victim of circumstances, and your loved ones can hold your hand as you try to heal. Other ways to cope with PTSD include:
- Journaling
- Deep breathing
- Relaxation
- Mindfulness
- Self-soothing
- Grounding
- Medication
Dealing with PTSD can be hard. That is why you should look into as many coping methods as you can. Additionally, the more options you consider, the less chance you will have of turning to substance abuse.
