In the United States, there's a massive disparity between how physical and mental health are treated, taught, and stigmatized. These barriers make it difficult for many people to notice symptoms post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), let alone seek diagnoses and treatment for these symptoms and manage triggers and attacks. Having adequate and accessible PTSD counseling can make all the difference in identifying and coping with what triggers you. With that in mind, here's some helpful information to guide you. 

A PTSD Counseling Guide to Triggers 

How do PTSD Triggers Develop?

Post-traumatic stress disorder commonly occurs following a stressful or traumatic event or experience, such as abuse, witnessing death, or war. Depending on the type of catalyst incident(s), the body and mind will associate certain stimuli with a traumatic occurrence, even when you're not in any danger. This can also lead to flashbacks and the feeling of reliving trauma. For instance, fireworks are common triggers for war veterans because the sudden, loud bangs are reminiscent of gunshots or bombs. These likenesses signal a warning sign to the body that a threat is imminent, which can cause a variety of emotional and physical reactions, similar to fight or flight responses. Through PTSD counseling, identifying the different types of triggers can help give you control over your life again. 

What are the Different Types of Triggers?

The types of triggers are closely tied to the specific traumatic event and are usually connected to the senses. Seeing a person, place, or object that was connected to the initial experience, or one that looks similar, can invoke a PTSD response. Similarly, scents or sounds that are reminiscent of your trauma are common triggers, but anniversaries and dates can also bring up feelings and memories from the day of an event. What brings up emotional and physical responses will vary from person to person, depending on the type of trauma. 

How Can You Cope With Them?

Because PTSD manifests differently for every affected individual, there's not one single way to cope with the resulting triggers, but some of the most effective treatments practiced in PTSD counseling include mindfulness training, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EDMR). Depending on your circumstances and needs, there are many options to choose from. In daily life, meditation and tactics for maintaining relaxation and control can also help. 

If you need PTSD counseling for yourself or a loved one in the Rochester, NY, area, turn to White Spruce Counseling. With a supportive and experienced staff, this center offers a compassionate approach to PTSD, as well as anger control, domestic abuse, and substance abuse. Find out more about their treatment options online or by calling (585) 424-2436.