At Wholetherapy, we are, going beyond the surface to explore the true meaning of being "triggered." With EMDR therapy as our guide, we're on a mission to provide the path through trauma, with clarity and compassion.
A New Understanding
"Triggered" - it's a term that's often a topic of our conversations. But what does it really mean? From a trauma therapy perspective, “being triggered” doesn’t just mean feeling upset or anxious.
The Brain's Alarm System
Consider your brain an intricate alarm system, with the amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex at the helm. These parts aren't just biological components; they're the custodians of your emotional well-being. When "triggered," they signal past traumas, blending memories with the present.
The Spectrum of Triggers
Triggers are not one-size-fits-all. From a specific smell to a seemingly ordinary date, triggers are deeply personal, unique to everyone’s journey. This diversity in what triggers us underscores the personalized nature of trauma and its healing process.
EMDR: A Path to Processing
Central to understanding "triggered" feelings is the role of unprocessed memories. EMDR therapy stands as a beacon of hope here, aiming not to reopen wounds but to process and diminish their impact. It's about transformation—making peace with the past to lessen its grip on our present. EMDR helps us to move from reliving our memories (“being triggered”), to remembering our experiences.
Strategies for Coping with Triggers
Grounding techniques and mindfulness are more than therapeutic buzzwords; they're essential tools for regaining control. Using these techniques can help us “switch off” the alarm system in our brains. It helps us distinguish the past event from our present experience. For those interested in healing the wounds or changing the stimulus-response relationship, EMDR and somatic therapies offer paths to reclaim life from the clutches of trauma.
The Power of Support & Breaking Down Barriers
Healing is a collective journey. Support from friends, family, and therapists isn't just comforting; it's necessary. This network of support is crucial, offering strength and resilience as we navigate the healing process.
Educating ourselves and others is vital in dismantling the stigma around trauma. Fostering a world of support is central to our mission, aiming to create more understanding for everyone affected by trauma.
Being "triggered" is a complex, deeply human experience. It's about facing the past to forge a more hopeful future.
If you're feeling this, know that Wholetherapy is with you.
Reach out, book an appointment, and let's begin on this healing journey together. You're not alone, and with support, healing is not just possible—it's within reach. Together, we can turn vulnerability into strength, one step at a time.
