How to cope with triggers

Sometimes, it is reasonable to try and avoid triggering sitations However, if avoiding possible triggers hinders your ability to function, you should seek help.

Learning to cope with triggers you can't anticipate or avoid requires emotional processing, which is most often aided by therapy. The following are a few effective, healthy coping strategies for lessening the impact of triggers:

• Calling on you social support
• Deep breathing
• Exercise
• Expressive writing
• Keep a journal
• Mindfulness meditation

Empower yourself by preparing to cope with triggers. Become aware of signs in your body that you're reacting to a trigger, such as changes in your breathing so that you can learn how to calm yourself down and shift your emotional state.

Your ultimate goal should be to detach yourself from the trigger, re-center, and focus on your coping strategy.