Gaining Control Over Your Triggers: What They Are, How to Train Yourself, and Reactions to Have

It is difficult to ignore triggers that cause negative thoughts and feelings. These triggers can be physical or emotional and may vary from one person to another. While some people are able to calmly manage their triggers, others struggle to maintain control. Fortunately, there are many ways to gain control over your triggers and manage your reactions effectively.

Uncovering the Causes of Your Triggers

The first step to gaining control over your triggers is to identify the source of your triggers. Triggers can be caused by physical or emotional stimuli and can be both positive and negative. For example, a positive emotional trigger could be a smell, sound, or sight that has a special meaning to you. Conversely, a negative physical trigger could be a particular activity or situation that makes you feel anxious or uncomfortable. By identifying the source of the triggers, you can start to find ways to manage them.

Understanding How to Cope With Triggers

Once you have identified the source of your triggers, it is important to understand how to cope with them. This can be done by developing strategies to prevent or reduce the impact of your triggers. This can include practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, avoiding certain activities or environments, and seeking out support from friends and family.

Training Yourself to React Differently

The next step to gaining control over your triggers is to learn how to respond differently to them. This can be done by understanding the physical and emotional reactions associated with your triggers and learning to replace these with healthier responses. For example, if you are feeling overwhelmed, take a few deep breaths or take a break from the situation. By recognizing and addressing the physical and emotional responses associated with your triggers, you can start to take control of the situation.

Learning to Regain Control of Your Triggers

The final step to gaining control over your triggers is to practice self-regulation techniques. This includes learning how to recognize your triggers and how to effectively manage your reactions. One way to do this is to practice mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and yoga, as well as other techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation. By connecting with your body and recognizing how you react to particular stimuli, you can start to take control of your triggers and reactions.

Practical Tips for Overcoming Negative Reactions

When dealing with triggers and reactions, it can be helpful to practice self-care techniques such as proper nutrition, exercise, and relaxation. It can also be beneficial to practice positive self-talk and affirmations, as this can help you recognize and challenge negative thoughts and feelings. Additionally, it is important to engage in activities that you enjoy and to seek out social support from family and friends. Taking the time to connect with people who understand and support you can be invaluable in helping you manage your triggers.

Gaining control over your triggers is an ongoing process that requires practice and dedication. Although it can be a challenge, it is possible to manage your triggers and reactions and take control of your life. By uncovering the causes of your triggers, understanding how to cope with them, and training yourself to respond differently, you can learn to regain control of your triggers and manage your reactions in a positive way.

Conclusion

Gaining control over your triggers can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. It requires dedication and practice, but by identifying the causes of your triggers, understanding how to cope with them, training yourself to react differently, and learning to regain control, you can start to take control of your life and manage your triggers in a positive way.

Sources

• Fennell, D. (2020). Framing Your Mind: Coping with Stress and Building Resilience. Routledge.
• McKay, M., Wood, J.C., & Brantley, J. (2007). The Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Workbook: Practical DBT Exercises for Learning Mindfulness, Interpersonal Effectiveness, Emotion Regulation, and Distress Tolerance. New Harbinger Publications.
• Reed, G. (2019). Mindfulness and mindfulness-based therapies: a review for mental health practitioners. Mental Health Nursing, 39(3), 97–107.