The term 'I'm triggered' has become more common recently, especially in mental health and therapy discussions. But what does it actually mean?
When someone says 'I'm triggered,' they are referring to a situation or experience that has caused a resurgence of intense emotions or memories related to a past traumatic event. This can manifest in various ways, such as panic attacks, anxiety, depression, or dissociation.
Trauma triggers are unique to each individual and can be anything from a specific word, phrase, particular smell, image, or sound. It's important to note that trauma triggers are not always predictable or logical. While some may find it helpful to avoid triggers altogether, it's often not feasible or healthy to do so in the long term.
If you or someone you know experiences trauma triggers, seeking support from a mental health professional is recommended. Talk therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) have been proven effective in helping individuals cope with and process trauma triggers.
In essence, the term 'I'm triggered' is a way for individuals to communicate the impact of past trauma on their present life and the discomfort they are experiencing in the past pain being in the present. By understanding the meaning and nuances of trauma triggers, we can better support those who experience them and work towards creating a more empathetic and supportive society.
