Fashion show & triggers

[lunamasri]

Before I could scroll away, a video started playing with words that made me feel sick. I saw in a fashion week there was a show where people wore the outfit they were assaulted in, reclaiming the clothing. I sat for a minute and wondered why the whole spectacle bothered me so much. I watched the show, they were all wearing adult clothing. What would my outfit be if I had to walk in that show? Well, it wouldnt be just one outfit. But, the first one...Purple pajamas from the kids section in target that he bought me. He always had to buy me pajamas, maybe he thought he was making me comfortable I dont know, but my mother always bought me the clothes I needed so I was confused by this. Anyway, I think id never be asked to be a part of a show like that because the audience would be too disturbed. Does anyone else ever accidentally see something in the news when theyre trying to avoid triggers? What do you guys do to regulate after being triggered?

 

[Movingforward10]

It can be really hard and some days that's easier to ground than other days, depending on how mentally well or impacted you are.

What helps me:
Speaking out loud to myself = hearing my adult voice helps me remember I am an adult now and brings me to today, rather than the past.

Stroking my arm or sternum = for some reason child parts appreciate that type of touch and it helps sooth.

Exercise = even though exercise means connecting with my body and when I am triggered that last thing I want is connection to my body, it really helps. Again, child parts love exercise , they like all the movement and energy and they find it fun.

Keeping busy = getting my mind occupied on something else can just shift the energy and focus. Even for a little bit to get some reprieve.


Thank you for writing this as it's helped me to remember what works for me as I'm currently spiralling into the darkness and this reminded me I can do things to get out of it again.

 

[Sideways]

Does anyone else ever accidentally see something in the news when theyre trying to avoid triggers?

For sure. Triggers are everywhere - when my stress cup is full, the TV really can’t be on unless I’m watching a repeat of something and I know it’s safe. News is out, scrolling anything is out. I’m careful about what books I read (and will sometimes resort to a book I’ve already read).

Processing those triggers is key.

In the meantime? Emptying out my stress cup. I run and do yoga atm, but have used boxing a lot over the years pretty successfully.