Responding to Triggers

Responding to Triggers

Triggers hit unexpectedly and are hard to control. The ensuing reaction is most likely to be defensive or intended for survival. This not only makes it worse but also unhealthy. Most triggers emanate from my distinctive experiences of being hurt and vulnerability during early stages of my life (Choudhuri et al., 2012). Often, they are based on unique details of the occasion.

Sometimes, I am fully aware of the triggers while at other times I am not. For instance, when a trigger is about me, I succumb to panic characterized by a racing heart. Often, I am unaware of factors that set off the reaction. Other times, there is a sudden feeling of rage in a tense conversation. If such is the case, an immediate response is to launch an attack. On the other hand, triggers about other people are met with avoidance. I find it hard to respond to the trigger even if I feel agitated. Over time, I have realized that enduring an upsetting situation results in a build-up of anger and frustration. In turn, it yields confusion during future recurrences.

It is true that the difference in my response to triggers is influenced identities and variation in social group memberships. During my early teens, I internalized trigger content because most of my peers, friends, and those in my inner circle were submissive. My response gradually changed as I became aware of my surroundings. Besides, my identity changed as I forged for new friendships with a similar mindset.

Tolerance is a response that I would like to add to my repertoire. This self-regulation skill will be helpful to me in controlling states of intense feelings that in the past have resulted in dissociation, avoidance, and attacks. In fact, the response will aid in diminishing the intensity and frequency of traumatic stress experiences and symptoms. Sourcing for alternatives to triggers diffuses shock and confusion. Positive response approach is effective to eliminate chances of recurrence of an emotional trigger. For example, I can commit myself to becoming assertive enough to tell my boss that I won't be available. 

Responses that I use more include attack, confusion, and confrontation. Others are misinterpretation are naming and surprise. They are reactive and can elicit a counter-response from offended parties. Resultantly, it is hard to find an amicable solution for triggering factors. It is my intention to use them selectively by embracing healthy reactions such as silence, discussion, and discretion. Confusion and shock can be eliminated if I become more aware of my emotions and accept them.

Ego, personal beliefs, and self-esteem block me from responding to triggers in more implicit ways. Besides, peer pressure affects some of my choice of response. Hesitance to seek professional advice hinders me from overcoming my fears to tame shock, confusion, and confrontation. It is attributable to lack of adequate information and forums for open discussion of such personal issues.

I will utilize self-help resources to study extensively on triggers and how to effectively manage them. Furthermore, there is a need to consult therapists, counselors, and other professionals in order to understand sources of my anger, annoyance, and frustration (Choudhuri et. al., 2012). This way, the specialists can recommend necessary measures on how I can face my vulnerabilities. Freedom from deeply ingrained conditioning will prompt a rewiring of my brain to respond in healthier new ways to inevitable triggers common in my relationship with others.

References

Choudhuri, D. D., Santiago-Rivera, A. L., & Garrett, M. T. (2012). Counseling & diversity. Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole Cengage Learning.