Triggers And Dissociation

[stephanie44]

Hello everyone - not sure how to avoid triggers and then to handle them when they do come up - I got triggered pretty badly at work and have been having nightmares.

 

[ashdawn8287]

Google how to handle triggers with PTSD. Research it and the aspects of PTSD that you struggle with, try different things and do what works best for you. :)

Google grounding techniques and practice those.

 

[jesse]

Stephanie44 I do not have advice on how to necessarily avoid a trigger. I personally try to stay focused on the present moment. Anytime my thoughts move into the past or future I try to just bring them back to the present. It helps sometimes but have not been able to keep it up for long periods. I can empathize and have triggers with a subordinate I supervise. Sometimes just getting away from that situation if you can and find a place you feel safe in your mind or in the physical moment. I am sorry you are going through this right now.

 

[ashdawn8287]

Jesse- the more you practice those grounding techniques the easier it becomes and then you just eventually start being in the present. So keep it up! It takes about 30 days to develop a habit with practice. Habits turn into lifestyles. Keep it up!!

 

[KrispyKreme]

Stephanie, sorry you are having a hard time now.

When I am triggered, it helps me to focus on something else. To get myself busy with something totally unrelated.

Wishing you all the luck in the world.

 

[Flyaway]

Hi Stephanie, I need an emotional shift (when dealing with intense flashbacks) before I get into grounding exercises etc... I usually use tv to do this. I find I can become completely absorbed in a chick flick or comedy, I live through a characters eyes for a while and the intensity of emotion shift. Then I find I have the strength to turn back to the issue and do the grounding/self care to move forward.

Welcome to the site!

 

[stephanie44]

Thanks so much to everyone for your thoughtful replies. I have a "toolkit" I put together for myself that really helps but there are times that I just seem to go into that panic mode. I will continue to work on it.