If you suffer from PTSD, you want to do anything possible to avoid triggering the devastating symptoms of the disorder. That is why it is important to understand some potential PTSD triggers so you can try to avoid potentially precarious situations. However, some triggers are unavoidable, so that is why you need to learn the coping strategies to overcome PTSD triggers.
If you suffer from PTSD, you want to do anything possible to avoid triggering the devastating symptoms of the disorder. That is why it is important to understand some potential PTSD triggers so you can try to avoid potentially precarious situations. However, some triggers are unavoidable, so that is why you need to learn the coping strategies to overcome PTSD triggers. At Alvarado Parkway Institute in San Diego we can help you learn to cope with the triggers and symptoms of PTSD so you can lead a happier and healthier life. To learn more, give us a call at (619) 667-6125.
Symptoms of PTSD
While the symptoms for PTSD can vary from person to person, there are a few symptoms that are fairly common in individuals who battle the disorder. Here are a few of the symptoms of PTSD.
- Drinking alcohol or abusing drugs
- Depression and anxiety
- Outbursts of anger
- Verbally or physically assaulting others
- Guilt and shame over your past actions
- Reacting in an extreme manner to normal events
- Trouble sleeping
- Withdrawing from loved ones
- Emotional numbness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Flashbacks and nightmares about past trauma
PTSD Triggers
PTSD triggers are situations or feelings that can bring up the symptoms of the disorder. A great way to get control of the symptoms of PTSD is to identify some potential triggers of the symptoms, increasing your awareness of your disorder. There are primarily two kinds of triggers, internal triggers and external triggers.
Internal Triggers
Internal triggers of PTSD are feelings, thoughts, and emotions that take place inside your body that can trigger the symptoms of PTSD. Internal triggers can also include bodily functions, such as an increase in heart rate or pain. Some internal triggers include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Loneliness
- Frustration
- Vulnerability
- Feeling a loss of control
- Increased heart rate
- Pain
- Muscle tension
External Triggers
External triggers of PTSD are everyday experiences, situations or encounters with people or places that may cause you to experience the symptoms of PTSD. Some external triggers include:
- Seeing an accident or other trauma
- Watching a movie or hearing sounds that remind you of your trauma
- Seeing an article or picture that reminds you of past trauma
- Certain smells
- Losing your job
- Getting in an argument
- Ending a relationship
- An anniversary, holiday or other celebration
- A specific place
- An individual that reminds you or connects you to your past trauma
PTSD Coping Strategies
The best coping strategy is avoiding triggers altogether, but in some cases that will be impossible. That is why it is important to learn coping strategies that can help you lessen the symptoms of PTSD when exposed to a trigger. Some PTSD coping strategies include:
- Relaxing
- Journaling
- Finding a social support system
- Deep breathing
- Practicing mindfulness
What Should I Do If I Need Help With PTSD?
If you are having trouble avoiding PTSD triggers and controlling the symptoms of PTSD, help is out there for you. There are a number of support centers that can use tested methods to help you get back in control of your life. If you live in San Diego, Alvarado Parkway Institute specializes in providing support and help to those with PTSD. If you are interested in learning more about PTSD treatment or have any further questions about PTSD triggers, contact Alvarado Parkway Institute today by calling (619) 667-6125.
