Everyone's experience with C-PTSD is different, but one commonality seems to be in something we all know too well; Triggers.

The truth is, there’s no magic solution to managing triggers (if only it was that easy!). However, the more you understand them, the less scary they become and the more likely you are to respond appropriately when they show up.

So, whilst I can’t promise to give you the silver bullet of how to manage triggers effectively, let’s have a look into eight little-known facts about triggers that may just make them seem slightly less scary…

"Fun" Fact No. 1

Triggers can be opportunities for growth and healing. By facing triggers, you can gain a better understanding of yourself and your experiences. And that means you're at a great starting point to work towards recovery. Yeah, that’s right… triggers could actually be a good thing!

What does this mean for you? Every time you face your triggers it is a courageous and important step toward healing. Be kind and patient with yourself as you work through them.

"Fun" Fact No. 2

Triggers can be a reminder that you are not alone. Whilst it may be terrifying in the moment, it's important to remember that you are not alone in this experience.

What does this mean for you? That means there is someone who has been through what you’re going through (like me!) and would love to show you what worked for them! You can help yourself by leaning on a therapist, support group, or trusted friend or family.

"Fun" Fact No. 3

People with C-PTSD may have more triggers than those with PTSD. That is because C-PTSD is often caused by prolonged trauma, whereas PTSD is usually a result of a single traumatic event.

What does this mean for you? Try not to compare your recovery time or recovery process with someone who has PTSD. It's okay to need more support and coping strategies to manage your response to triggers.

"Fun" Fact No. 4

Triggers can be cumulative. That means the more you are exposed to them, the stronger their impact can become.

What does this mean for you? Try to minimize your exposure to triggers if you feel this happening, and seek professional help from a specialist therapist to work through your emotional response. Just don't worry! Effective trigger management is completely possible through many techniques like trauma-based therapy!

"Fun" Fact No. 5

Triggers can be unlearned through therapy and other techniques. This involves retraining your brain to respond differently to the stimuli that previously caused a trigger response.

What does this mean for you? Consider seeking therapy or other professional support to help you unlearn your triggers and develop healthy coping strategies. As I've said, it's more than possible! I know that because I did it myself.

"Fun" Fact No. 6

Triggers can be both internal and external. You probably know about external triggers (loud noises, smells, and the like) but have you heard of internal ones? These are lesser-known triggers and come from within you when you experience feelings like shame or guilt.

What does this mean for you? Learn to recognize your internal triggers and develop coping strategies to manage them. For example, if you tend to feel shame or guilt, try practicing self-compassion to remind yourself that you are not to blame for what happened to you.

"Fun" Fact No. 7

Triggers can be subtle and difficult to recognize. To make it even more complicated... your response to a trigger can show up as irrational fears or phobias, negative self-talk, or self-sabotaging behaviors.

What does this mean for you? These subtle responses can be harder to identify so start by reflecting on your work life or relationship history - are there any "toxic" patterns you haven't been able to shake? This could be you responding to a trigger.

So… anything new to you there? The biggest takeaway should be that triggers can be terrifying but you CAN develop coping strategies to overcome them.

They're also complicated! They can cause a range of physical AND emotional responses. Pay attention to what triggers you and write it down. The sooner you can decode what triggers you, the sooner you can manage your response.

Take this as an example - I used to get angry when I drank so I thought it was the alcohol. However, when I noted my environment and who I was with, I could see that it only happened with a certain group of friends.

It was then that I realized it wasn’t the alcohol at all. It was actually because that group of friends called me by my full name rather than my nickname. That was the name they knew me by in my childhood, so… guess what… it triggered me back to that scary time!

Triggers are complicated, but you CAN change your response to them. As the author and therapist Christine Caine said, "Your current situation is not your final destination." And, you’ll have me right by your side whilst you're figuring it all out!

Love from,

Bee and The Team at C-PTSD Support Kit