Understanding your triggers

Ever been in a situation where somebody is telling you a story and you get a PANG of emotion (fear, rage, anxiety, sadness)?
It may take you by surprise and leave you feeling confused. Thinking that it's disproportionate to what was happening...well you were triggered! Some of us are great at identifying these triggers and some of us need more help.
Triggers can be anything from environmental factors, opinions, certain words or even just people! Triggers also tend to have a physiological reaction: palpitations,dizziness, hot flushes, nausea etc.Identifying triggers is no easy feat but it will certainly serve you. Without becoming aware of triggers you are at the mercy of your emotions manipulating you.

• Pay attention to your physical reactions. Like the ones I outlined above.

• Be mindful of any thoughts or words that whizz through your head after the physical response

• Notice your surroundings: who are you with, what are you doing, what can you see?

• What were you doing before you were triggered?

• Keep a journal on your phone or at home. See if you can find a pattern

• Be patient! This takes practice and time so show yourself some self-care!