If you’ve been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), you may already be familiar with the term “triggers.” These are the people, places, things, or situations that can set off a flashback, panic attack, or other negative symptoms of PTSD. Knowing what your triggers are is an important step in managing and healing from trauma. While PTSD triggers will be different for each person, there are a few steps you can take to identify your own.
It’s also important to know that you don’t have to manage PTSD on your own. The support of mental health professionals can help you work through your triggers and develop coping strategies. If you’re looking for PTSD treatment services in Massachusetts, Northeast Health Services can help. Call 508.794.8711 today to get started.
What Are PTSD Triggers?
PTSD triggers are reminders of a traumatic event or series of events. They can be sensory, such as certain smells or sounds, or they could be emotional, like feelings of anger, sadness, or fear. Triggers can come from internal sources like thoughts and emotions, as well as external sources like people and places.
How to Identify Your PTSD Triggers
To identify your PTSD triggers, it’s important to pay attention to your body and mind. Notice when you start feeling anxious, angry, or fearful, and try to connect those feelings with a specific trigger. You may want to keep track of your triggers in a journal or through another tracking method. It can also be helpful to discuss your experiences with a trusted friend or mental health professional.
Another way to identify your triggers is to think back to the traumatic event or events that led to your PTSD. What specific details stand out in your memory? Those details could be clues to your triggers. It’s also important to recognize that triggers can change over time, so it’s important to regularly check in with yourself and modify your coping strategies accordingly. Exploring the history of your trauma is something that should be done with a mental health professional, like the ones available at Northeast Health Services locations. Contact us today to learn more about what treatment options are available.
Common PTSD Triggers
While everyone’s triggers are unique, there are some common themes among those with PTSD. These include:
- Loud noises or crowded spaces
- Certain smells or tastes
- Specific locations or people associated with the traumatic event
- Negative emotions such as anger, guilt, or shame
Understanding your own triggers can help you anticipate and manage potential flashbacks, panic attacks, or other PTSD symptoms. It’s also important to remember that triggers can be internal, such as negative thoughts and memories, so it’s important to be mindful of your internal experiences as well.
Benefits of PTSD Treatment
Identifying your PTSD triggers is just one piece of the puzzle in managing and healing from trauma. Seeking professional help through PTSD treatment can provide additional tools and support to cope with triggers and symptoms. Treatment options may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.
Talking with a therapist or counselor can help you process your trauma and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Medication may also be prescribed to alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or sleep disturbances.
In addition to individual therapy, group therapy can also be beneficial for those with PTSD. Connecting with others who have had similar experiences can provide a sense of understanding and support.
Call Northeast Health Services Today
Don’t let PTSD and its triggers control your life. If you’re looking for PTSD treatment in Massachusetts, Northeast Health Services is here for you. Through our compassionate and personalized approach, we can help you identify your triggers and develop the necessary tools to manage them. Call 508.794.8711 to get started. For new clients, please click here to schedule an appointment, and for existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.