However, there is a difference between being triggered and being uncomfortable.

Feeling triggered isn’t just about something rubbing you the wrong way.

This includessubstance use disorders,eating disorders, andanxiety.

In these cases, a trigger is anything that prompts an increase in or return of symptoms.

The experience might cause returned cravings and even relapse.

Types of Triggers

Internal Triggers

An internal trigger comes from within the person.

It can be a memory, a physical sensation, or an emotion.

For example, negative thoughts and feelings might trigger a relapse of drug or alcohol use.

External Triggers

External triggers come from the person’s environment.

They can be a person, place, or a specific situation.

How Triggers Are Formed

Mental health professionals don’t yet know precisely how triggers form.

Some researchers believe that the brain stores memories from a traumatic event differently from memories of a non-traumatic event.

When triggered, the brain might interpret past traumatic events as current.

A trigger can cause an emotional reaction before a person realizes why they have become upset.

For example, a person recovering from alcohol use disorder might associate a particular activity with drinking.

Risk Factors

Certain factors can increase a person’s risk of developing a trigger.

Are Trigger Warnings Helpful?

Whether trigger warnings are helpful or harmful is a subject of debate.

This question is particularly relevant in college classrooms.

Trigger warnings are used in other parameters, too, such as in the media.

How to Cope With Triggers

Sometimes, trying to avoid a triggering situation is reasonable.

However, if avoidance hinders your ability to function, you should seek help.

Empower yourself by preparing to cope with triggers.

Your goal should be to detach yourself from the trigger, recenter, and focus on your coping strategy.

In a2016 NPR surveyof 800 college and university educators, about half said they’ve used trigger warnings.

Most made the decision themselves, not in response to any formal policy or student requests.

Only 15% said their students had requested them.

Begin with “trigger warning” or “TW” so your followers understand your meaning clearly.

It might look something like this:

TW: disordered eating

Don’t confuse trigger warnings with hashtags.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.Trauma reminders: triggers.

PTSD: National Center for PTSD.

2015;6:27. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2015.00027

van Marle H.PTSD as a memory disorder.Eur J Psychotraumatol.

2022;17(5):e0266722.

doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0266722

Bellet BW, Jones PJ, McNally RJ.Trigger warning: Empirical evidence ahead.J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry.

2017;3(2):163-177. doi:10.1037/stl0000084